The value of computed tomography (CT) in determining the cause of obstructive jaundice in 67 proved cases is described. The presence of stones, the level of obstruction, the relative size of the ringlike structures produced by the dilated bile duct, and the shape of the distal visualized ring have proved to be the most important variables. The retrospective analysis determined the correct cause in 94% of the cases. CT fulfills all goals considered important in obstructive jaundice and eliminates the need for invasive procedures in many cases.

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Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is a rare, late complication of lumbar disc surgery. It is often not suspected and the symptoms are diagnosed as heart failure or deep venous thrombosis. We report a case in which the patient developed leg swelling and high-output congestive heart failure due to a left ilioiliac AVF after lumbar laminectomy.

A surveillance program helped prevent graft thrombosis, and intervention as required achieved excellent primary and assisted patency rates. Stent deployment salvaged a considerable number of accesses but did not significantly extend access survival time.

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