What is Cholangioscopy (SpyGlass Cholangioscopy) ?
It is the direct examination of the bile ducts using a small caliber scope. The Spyglass scope can be inserted into the bile duct or pancreatic duct to enable direct visualization during ERCP. and help obtain biopsy specimens, lead to the diagnosis of abnormalities, and guide stone therapy.
What are conditions in which Cholangioscopy is used? It is used of diagnosing various entities like
It is used of diagnosing various entities as below mentioned :
- Bile duct specific infections.
- Haemobilia ( bleeding into the bile ducts ).
- Cancer of bile ducts and pancreatic ducts.
- Exact localisation of tumour in the bile-duct or pancreatic duct.
- Suspicious or indeterminate strictures of bile-duct.
- Post liver transplant biliary strictures evaluation.
- Chronic pancreatitis.
It is used in the treatment of some of the above mention conditions and also the other conditions like
- Extraction/dissolution of stones in the bile-ducts which cannot be reached or removed by ERCP.
- Extraction of pancreatic ductal stones.
- Treatment of certain cancers within the bile and pancreatic ducts.
How is the procedure of cholangioscopy done?
It is typically done in an elective setting on an outpatient basis after a period of overnight fasting. It is usually done under sedation (a lighter form of anesthesia). The entire procedure will be briefed to you by the nursing personnel who will be accompanying and assisting you during the entire procedure. A thin, flexible fully sterilized endoscope is gently inserted into your mouth under the vision while you are comfortable lying over a couch in prone position. Various accessories are introduced depending upon your disease condition and status. Once the procedure is completed you will have only minor abdominal and throat discomfort which settles within a span of a few minutes. Post-procedure you will be able to resume your daily routine after consultation with your doctor.