Re: sphincter of oddi dysfunction

Posted By Kathy on June 07, 1999 at 03:22:06
: Topic Area: Digestive
Could you explain the procedure to relieve sphincter of oddi dysfunction pain.  We have been told there will be a cut in a specific area, with immediate results.  We were also told there could be complications from this procedure.  I would like to know what kind of complications there are.  Are they the normal complications associated with most surgeries?  Or are there more dangerous complications?  Thank you.




The procedure you describe is known as an ERCP with sphincterotomy (cutting the sphincter of Oddi).  ERCP is an endoscopic procedure which utilizes a side viewing endoscope that enables the endoscopist to access the bilary and pancreatic ducts.  The sphincterotome is a device consisting of a wire electrode in a plastic cannula.  After the cannula has been inserted into the sphincter, the wire is then elevated and electrocautery is used to cut the sphincter.  Complications resulting from sphincterotomy are well described and include perforation, bleeding, and pancreatitis.  Pancreatitis occurs in 5-10% of patients undergoing sphincterotomy with the vast majority of cases being only mild.  However, severe pancreatitis requiring prolonged hospitalization can occur in up to 1% of patients.  ERCP with sphincterotomy is the procedure of choice for patients with established sphincter of Oddi dysfunction.
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only.  Please consult your personal physician for diagnositic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition.
Sincerely,
I have just read these postings and have had alot of trouble in the past 2 yrs. I have had 6 ERCP'S and the first one did give me every complication  you could get but I survived!I also continued having narrowing of my bile duct and recently had major surgery to finally fix it. I'm now nearly painfree for the first time for 2 yrs so good luck for those out there with the same problems
FWR
















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Re: sphincter of oddi dysfunction jan overturf 8/09/1999
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sphincter of oddi dysfunction Susana 8/15/1999
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Re: sphincter of oddi dysfunction jane cox 8/04/1999
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Re: sphincter of oddi dysfunction Janet Davis 7/12/1999
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sphincter of oddi dysfunction steve 8/11/1999
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