DefinitionA percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram (PTCA) is an x-ray of the bile ducts inside and outside the liver. The x-ray is taken after contrast medium (dye) is injected directly into the bile ducts.Alternative NamesPTCA; Cholangiogram - PTCAHow the test is performedThe test is performed in a radiology department by a radiologist. You will be asked to lie on your back on the x-ray table. The upper right side of your abdomen will be cleansed and you will be given a local anesthetic. A long, thin, flexible needle is then inserted through the skin into the liver.With guidance from an x-ray machine that projects images onto a TV screen (fluoroscope), the bile duct is located and the contrast medium injected. The contrast medium then flows through the ducts and can be seen on the fluoro