[Diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in patients with Billroth II gastrectomy]

Abstract

Background: Diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is more difficult in patients with Billroth II gastrectomy.

Methods: Personal experience in the last 28 months with 38 ERCP regarding 33 Billroth II patients representing the 5.4% of total number of ERCP performed in the same period is reported.

Results: Choledochal lithiasis could be treated in all cases observed also if two observed patients necessitated of two ERCP procedure. Only one patient with biliary stenosis could not be treated because of failed sphincterotomy and deep incannulation. The most difficult step in the procedure was duodenal intubation. A final ERCP success rate was 79%. EST could be performed in most cases (16 out of 17 patients=94%). No complications are reported. The use of the lateral viewing duodenoscope is emphasized.

Conclusions: Today, ERCP and endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) give similar results and no higher risk in patients with regular anatomy or in patients with Billroth II gastrectomy.