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Gastroenterologists use endoscopes to diagnose diseases of the digestive system, which include the liver, bile ducts and pancreas. ERCPs help evaluate such conditions as gallstones, suspected malignancies, bile duct narrowing (strictures) and cysts (fluid filled structures) of the pancreas.
[Click here to view a video on Spyglass™ Technology] Endoscopies are outpatient medical procedures in which a long flexible tube with a camera and light attached at the end is guided to the digestive track tract through the mouth.
The conventional ERCP renders a two-dimensional black and white x-ray image that can produce inconclusive results. Many times additional testing is required or a repeat procedure is necessary to confirm a definitive diagnosis.
The new SpyGlass™ System is designed to overcome these imaging limitations. Using a much a smaller dual probe physicians are able to access areas once considered unreachable.
With the conventional method doctors could only evaluate the bile ducts indirectly via x-rays. With the new SpyGlass™ device they can physically enter the ducts and actually see the causes of blockage and disease.
Having the ability to now literally look inside something as tiny as the bile duct and take clear precise color images enables physicians to make a faster and more accurate diagnosis. In addition, it reduces the need for repeat tests, making it more convenient for patients and their families
Another benefit is that the SpyGlass™ can be controlled by a single physician. Other cholydochoscope systems require two physicians or a physician and a skilled, trained nurse: one to control the ‘mother’ scope and the other person to control the ‘baby’ scope.
But since the SpyGlass™ is actually a scope within a scope, only one operator is needed.
Most importantly, ERCPs with SpyGlass™ also allow for swifter treatment. Doctors using the device can biopsy immediately, remove gallstones and stretch out narrow areas in the bile duct, thus relieving a bile duct blockage. strictures, and work on obstructed bile ducts.
This less invasive type of treatment can often prevent the need for major surgery.
Right now, there are only 40 hospitals across the country using SpyGlass™. INTEGRIS is the only such facility in the state of Oklahoma where citizens can receive treatment with this powerful technology. ?
Harlan Wright, M.D. with the INTEGRIS Nazih Zuhdi Transplant Institute and Robert Rankin, M.D., who is with Digestive Disease Specialists, Inc. and also a member of the medical gastroenterology team affiliated with the INTEGRIS Digestive Health Center, are two of only a select group of physicians specifically trained to use the new equipment.
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