The Bismuth-Corlette classification of hilar cholangiocarcinoma (Klatskin tumour) is used for surgical planning. A type III b lesion involves:

• A Common hepatic duct only, not extending to the biliary confluence
• B Biliary confluence and extension into the left second-order bile ducts ✓
• C Biliary confluence and extension into the right second-order bile ducts
• D Bilateral involvement of second-order bile ducts on both sides (unresectable)

Explanation

Bismuth-Corlette classification: Type I — CHD only; Type II — involves the confluence; Type IIIa — extends into right second-order ducts; Type IIIb — extends into left second-order ducts; Type IV — bilateral second-order involvement (classically considered unresectable). Type IIIb involvement of left ductal system typically requires right hepatectomy for resection. Knowledge of left vs right extension is critical for planning hepatic resection.

Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.