Intraoperative Cholangiogram

An intraoperative cholangiogram is a procedure that is sometimes done during the surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). The doctor places a small tube called a catheter into the cystic duct, which drains bile from the gallbladder into the common bile duct. A contrast dye is injected into the cystic duct, and X-rays are taken.

You may have intraoperative cholangiogram to:

  • Look for gallstones that may be in the common bile duct.
  • Allow the surgeon to see the anatomy of the bile duct system from the liver to the small intestine. Viewing the bile ducts before removal of the gallbladder may help make sure that there is no damage to the common bile duct.

Risks

There are some risks of having an intraoperative cholangiogram.

Some complications include:

  • Damage to the common bile duct.
  • Leakage of bile.
  • Bleeding.
  • Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).
  • Infection.
  • An allergic reaction to the contrast dye.

Credits

Current as of: October 6, 2025

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Top of the page

Current as of: October 6, 2025

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

 
 

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