A new technique for decompression of the biliary tract.

Using techniques originally developed for roentgenologic placement of much smaller bore catheters, a large bore, thick wall Silastic catheter has been used to decompress and internally drain the right hepatic biliary system, while a more traditional approach was used on the left. By avoiding the trap of standard procedures and retaining the ability to innovate, a good surgeon will be able to work out a satisfactory solution for a difficult problem for the ultimate betterment of the patient and self.