This study compares the efficacy of percutaneous transhepatic drainage (PTD) versus operative biliary decompression for patients with malignant obstructive jaundice. The utilization of preoperative PTD as a surgical adjuvant is also examined. The records of 90 patients with obstructed jaundice from two large community hospitals were reviewed. In the group of patients undergoing curative resections, no advantage was noted for the patients who received preoperative PTD. The patients receiving only surgery left the hospital 8 days sooner. For the patients undergoing palliative treatment, the group receiving only the surgery had the lowest morbidity and mortality and the longest survival rates. The patients receiving only PTD had the shortest hospital stay, but also had many complications, the highest mortality rate, and the shortest survival rate. The group receiving preoperative PTD followed by surgical decompression had more complications and stayed in the hospital longer, with no change in postoperative mortality.