Carcinoma of Bile Ducts in the Porta Hepatis

Thirty‐three patients with carcinoma of the bile ducts in the porta hepatis treated at the Austin Hospital and the Peter MacCallum clinic were reviewed. The majority were elderly with advanced disease, resection was not possible in any instance and only 18% survived more than 12 months. The methods of diagnosis and treatment are reviewed and a line of management recommended. Good palliation with low morbidity for this group of patients remains a challenge.