Dilation of the pancreatic duct with a stent reduces the risk of pancreatitis after endoscopic examination of the liver, gallbladder and pancreatic ducts. This is shown by the study published in the journal. Lancet.
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, or ERCP, is a procedure used to diagnose and treat diseases of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. This method combines light with X-rays and the use of an endoscope, a long, flexible tube. Sometimes the procedure leads to narrowing of the pancreatic duct due to swelling and inflammation (pancreatitis). To prevent this life-threatening complication, doctors place a stent in the pancreatic duct or prescribe the drug indomethacin.
In a recent study of more than 1,900 patients undergoing ERCP, pancreatitis developed in 14% of patients receiving indomethacin alone and 11% of patients receiving indomethacin and stents.
The results mean that indomethacin alone is not effective in preventing pancreatitis and some patients may need a stent. The findings may lead to a revision of surgical training standards, as few doctors are currently able to properly perform pancreatic duct stenting.
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