Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography using a mobile image intensifier

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Imaging
• Surgical Procedures

Background:

• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a key diagnostic and therapeutic procedure.
• Access to specialized X-ray facilities can limit ERCP service availability.
• Mobile imaging technology offers potential solutions for expanding endoscopic services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and evaluate a method for performing ERCP using a mobile intensifier.
• To assess the diagnostic success and complication rates of ERCP performed in a non-specialist setting.
• To determine the feasibility of this approach for expanding ERCP services.

Main Methods:

• A total of 140 ERCP procedures were attempted in 132 patients.
• Procedures were conducted using a mobile intensifier in a theatre or endoscopy unit.
• Diagnostic success and the performance of endoscopic sphincterotomy were recorded.
• Complications following sphincterotomy were documented.

Main Results:

• The ERCP examination was diagnostically successful in 114 patients (85%).
• Endoscopic sphincterotomy was performed in 54 patients (38.5%).
• Ten complications (18%) occurred after sphincterotomy, including one postoperative death from a retroperitoneal leak.

Conclusions:

• Performing ERCP with a mobile intensifier is a viable method for expanding service availability.
• Diagnostic success rates are comparable to specialist centers with increasing expertise.
• This technique provides an alternative for centers lacking dedicated X-ray facilities.