INTRODUCTION Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is an endoscopic technique in which a specialised side-viewing upper endoscope is guided into the duodenum, allowing for instruments to be passed into the bile and pancreatic ducts. These are opacified by injection of a contrast medium, thereby permitting their radiologic visualization and allowing for a variety of therapeutic interventions. It is a relatively complex endoscopic procedure since it requires specialised equipment and has a long learning curve to develop proficiency. Its benefits in the minimally invasive management of biliary and pancreatic disorders are challenged by a higher potential for serious complications than any other standard endoscopic technique.1Loperfido S, Costamagna G. Endoscopic retrograde cholangio pancreatography: Indications, patient preparation, and complications. Available from: http://www.uptodate.com/contents/endoscopicretrograde-cholangiopancreatography-indications-patient-preparationand-complications #H70259351 [Accessed on 6th July 2016]. INDICATION FOR ERCP The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) has published guidelines regarding the role of ERCP in biliary tract and pancreatic diseases. Indications for…
INTRODUCTION Pancreatitis is a rare disease characterised by pathologic swelling and inflammation of the pancreas.1Erica Roth, Steven Kim. Pancreatitis. Available from http://www.healthline. th com/health/pancreatitis#Overview1 [Accessed on 24 June 2016]. Pancreatic damage occurs when the digestive enzymes are activated and begin attacking the pancreas. In very severe cases, pancreatitis can result in bleeding into the gland itself; serious tissue damage, infection and fluid collections may occur. Severe pancreatitis can result in damage to other vital organs such as the heart, lung and kidneys.2Cleveland Clinic. Pancreatitis, Acute & Chronic Overview. Available from:http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases_conditions/hic_Pancreatitis/th dd_overview [Accessed on 24 June 2016]. DEFINITION AND CLASSIFICATION According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), pancreatitis is broadly classified into two types:1Erica Roth, Steven Kim. Pancreatitis. Available from http://www.healthline. th com/health/pancreatitis#Overview1 [Accessed on 24 June 2016]. Acute Pancreatitis: Acute pancreatitis is an acute inflammatory process of the pancreas, usually accompanied by abdominal pain…
