Cholangioscopy

What is a cholangioscopy procedure?

Cholangioscopy(also known as intraductal endoscopy) is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the bile ducts with the use of a fiberoptic endoscope for direct visualization of the biliary tree during an ERCP(Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography). The biliary tree is responsible for draining the gallbladder, liver and pancreas into your duodenum(first part of the small intestine).

Your doctor may choose to perform a cholangioscopy in the event that x-ray imaging from an ERCP is insufficient to make an adequate diagnosis, or therapeutic intervention requires direct visualization of the site.

During a cholangioscopy

When a cholangioscopy is performed during an ERCP, it does not require additional preparation. Antibiotics are not routinely administered pre-procedure but are used in certain circumstances. ERCP is performed under conscious sedation, MAC (usually with Propofol) or general anesthesia.

Your doctor will insert a small tube called a duodenoscope into your mouth, down your esophagus and into your stomach and duodenum until it reaches the bile duct. Your doctor will then place a thin fiberoptic scope into the duodenoscope to the desired area of interest within the duct for direct visualization.

Depending on what your doctor finds, he or she may use perform other procedures such as taking a tissue sample (biopsy) to test for cancer or other diseases, or remove stones and debris(with electrohydraulic lithotripsy).

Are there any risks during a cholangioscopy?

As with any medical procedure, there are risks and you should talk to your doctor about what they are. Your doctor will be able to explain the risks and answer any questions you may have.

Potential complications with an ERCP may include but are not limited to: pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), infection, bleeding and perforation of the duodenum.

Recovery period for a cholangioscopy

Recovery times may vary, depending on the disease being treated. A cholangioscopy is performed as either an outpatient or inpatient procedure in the hospital's interventional Endoscopy or Radiology suite.

This reference text contains information about a specific procedure and is provided by Boston Scientific Corporation for reference only. Please talk to your doctor about complete procedural information, potential risks, and questions you may have.