A novel model for training in ERCP with double-balloon enteroscopy after abdominal surgery

Since the first presentation of the compactEASIE in 1997, this training model has become established for nearly all interventional techniques in upper gastrointestinal endoscopy including ERCP. So far, training using double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) for ERCP has not become established.

This paper presents a special organ preparation for the compactEASIE model which for the first time allows simulation of ERCP in patients who have had prior abdominal surgery. Two abdominal organ packages from freshly slaughtered pigs were used to create a postsurgical anatomic situation.

A life-like training model was established for ERCP training in a postsurgical anatomic situation. A Roux-en-Y anastomosis was created such that the papilla was located around 100 cm beyond the pylorus. The duodenum was closed shortly above the pig papilla at the level of the pylorus. The papilla was successfully reached by DBE after 40 minutes. The papilla was cannulated and regular contrasting of the biliary system using fluoroscopy was achieved. Sphincterotomy, stent placement and exchange, and needle-knife sphincterotomy over a 7-Fr stent were conducted successfully.

Modified organ preparations allow the simulation of and training in ERCP in postsurgical anatomic situations in training models using animal parts.