Endoscopic cholangiography
It is performed in combination with radiology equipment (fluoroscopy), which allows visualization of the biliary and pancreatic ducts using contrast media introduced into said ducts; once visualized , it allows instrumentation for diagnosis and/or treatment of alterations , such as stones, tumors, dilations, placement of stents , among others.
Cholangiography is an outpatient procedure performed under sedation , which combines upper digestive endoscopy and X-ray, using a side-viewing endoscope (flexible endoscopy tube with a small camera at the end and which has a guide and instrument guidance system).
Cholangiography is indicated when there is knowledge or high suspicion of alterations in the bile or pancreatic ducts following previous evaluations.
You may drink fluids up to six hours before the exam. It is recommended that the procedure be performed under sedation, to allow for better evaluation, greater safety and better tolerance.
General recommendations
Preparation for the procedure is of vital importance for the correct preparation and performance of the examination requested of you. Remember that it is your treating physician, or the health team that cares for you, who knows your health status and recommends the performance of this examination (indication and relevance), not the Gastroclinic Institute as such.
For technical-scientific reasons and for patient safety, we recommend that you prepare for the exam in the established manner. However, we also suggest that you consult your doctor beforehand , as he or she is the one who knows your health condition and can best advise you on the possibility of doing this preparation, in case you have an illness or are undergoing treatment that cannot be interrupted for fasting.
For endoscopic procedures, patients over 75 years of age, under 12 years of age, or with cognitive disability problems, sleep apnea (those who use CPAP), those who have suffered a heart attack less than six months ago, with psychiatric disorders, genetic disorders, epilepsy and those who use oxygen in their daily lives must report this condition by contacting the Gastroclinical Institute before beginning the preparation, in order to confirm the appointment assignment.
It is advisable to stop taking, at least five days before taking, medications containing Aspirin, Clopidogrel (Plavix), Ribaroxaban (Xarelto), Dabigatran (Pradaxa), Apixaban (Eliquis), Warfarin (Coumadin) or any other medication that has an anticoagulant effect. You should consult with your doctor about the possibility of stopping them and do so with his/her authorization.
Medications to discontinue
You should notify your doctor of your use of anticoagulants and consult with your treating physician about the appropriateness of suspending or not the anticoagulant medications prior to the procedure.