The "Inside-outside" Sign

J Clin Imaging Sci. 2021 Nov 1:11:57. doi: 10.25259/JCIS_192_2021. eCollection 2021.

Abstract

We describe a radiological sign, "inside-outside sign," observed during the cannulation of an expandable contrast-filled tubular structure in the human body. In this optical illusion, a catheter or guidewire appears to be outside the lumen when it is inside the lumen in reality. Knowing this rare optical illusion is essential to avoid mistaking it for a catheter or guidewire outside the lumen.

Keywords: Illusions in radiology; Interventional radiology; Percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage; Portogram; Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt.