A rare lesion, macroscopic hemobilia involving the liver, is usually of traumatic or iatrogenic origin. A review of the international literature published between 1976 and 1981 demonstrated 73 such cases, including 50 of an iatrogenic nature. Among the diagnostic investigations employed, duodenal fibroscopy gave negative results in 50% of cases. Ultrasonography and computed tomography are now replacing scintigraphy with99mtechnetium as a diagnostic procedure for intrahepatic fluid collections. The most reliable method is arteriography, this alone providing both diagnostic and topographic data. The fact that treatment by endovascular route was successful in 24 of the 28 patients suggests that the need for surgery requires reconsideration, particularly in cases of iatrogenic origin.

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