Biliary complications after liver transplantation: A computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging pictorial review

Abstract

Biliary complications are the most common complications after liver transplantation. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are cornerstones for timely diagnosis of biliary complications after liver transplantation. The diagnosis of these complications by CT and MRI requires expertise, mainly with respect to identifying subtle early signs to avoid missed or incorrect diagnoses. For example, biliary strictures may be misdiagnosed on MRI due to size mismatch of the common ducts of the donor and recipient, postoperative edema, pneumobilia, or susceptibility artifacts caused by surgical clips. Proper and prompt diagnosis of biliary complications after transplantation allows the timely initiation of appropriate management. The aim of this pictorial review is to illustrate various CT and MRI findings related to biliary complications after liver transplantation, based on time of presentation after surgery and frequency of occurrence.