What is sphincterotomy (papillotomy)?
During the course of your ERCP, a condition may be found that could be effectively treated by enlarging the opening between the bile duct system and the intestine. This condition could be stones in the bile duct or blockage that requires stenting (holding open with special bypass tubes). In the event that it is necessary to enlarge the bile duct opening, a special wire is advanced into the bile duct and is used to make an incision (cut) in the bile duct from a position inside of the intestine. This procedure does not require a skin incision and is not painful. The wire is connected to a special electrical cautery unit that seals the tissues after the cut and prevents bleeding. 4. What preparation is required? For the best possible examination, the stomach must be completely empty, so you should have nothing to eat or drink (including water) from midnight, the night before the exam. Be sure to let your physician know if you have any allergies to any drug. A companion must accompany you
