Sphincter of Oddi type 2

[LIN96]

After almost one year of RUQP my gastroenterologist has told me I probably have SOD type 2. I have been having severe pain attacks requiring hospitalisation for strong analgesia IVT and anti-emetics...totalling 3 admissions since Xmas 2009. The last admission was last month while I was on holiday in the UK.  
While I was there I also had a private consultation with a gastroenteroligist at my local hospital. The conclusion of the meeting the doctor had said that I should really have an ERCP +/- sphincterotomy. My GB was removed last year when sludge was found on the EUS, sludge was also found in the distal CBD.
My current gastroenterologist in Australia is reluctant to perform the ERCP due to the high risks of post ERCP Pancreatitis. I do understand this rationale, but surely elevated GGT and ALT and regular pain attacks also carries risks if left undiagnosed.
Can you please tell me what these risks are and why after a second opinion from the UK is my doctor hesitant to perform the ERCP??? I am serioiusly considering going back to the UK for treatment as I really do not want another pain attack.

[LIN96]

thanks for your input... Unfortunatley where I live in Australia there is no "gold standard" manometry testing for SOD. I guess the type is identified purely from  from the classification table. Im fully aware of all risks (being a registered nurse) but all I want is for the pain to stop.

lin 96

[CalGal]

Unfortunately, your doc can't really categorize your condition as type 1, 2 or 3 without that ERCP with manometry test. Yes, the test does carry with it the risk of pancreatitis, but these days that risk can be lessened somewhat by the use of stenting or botox. If the condition can't be controlled with either anti-spasm meds or specific calcium channel blocking medication, it would be advisable to have the ERCP done. But make sure the doc doing the test is capable of doing the manometry portion of the test. That is a very necessary component.