SpyGlass DS cholangioscopy is used during ERCP to directly visualize the bile duct.
It may be used when standard imaging or ERCP findings are inconclusive.
What is SpyGlass DS?
SpyGlass DS is a direct-visualization cholangioscopy system used together with ERCP.
It allows physicians to examine the inside of the bile duct more closely than with X-ray imaging alone.
This can support diagnostic assessment when bile duct narrowing, intraductal lesions,
or unclear ERCP findings require further evaluation.
Conventional ERCP mainly relies on fluoroscopic contrast imaging.
SpyGlass DS provides direct endoscopic visualization inside the bile duct,
allowing closer assessment when indirect imaging alone is insufficient.
About SpyGlass DS
SpyGlass DS is a single-operator cholangioscopy system
used in combination with ERCP.
It enables direct observation of the bile duct
and, when required, the pancreatic duct.
Direct visualization allows closer assessment of abnormalities within the duct than imaging alone.
When SpyGlass may be used
- Indeterminate bile duct strictures
- Suspected bile duct tumors or intraductal lesions
- Unclear findings after ERCP
- Evaluation of complex biliary disease
- Difficult bile duct stones in selected cases
Use of SpyGlass is determined based on imaging findings,
ERCP results, and overall clinical assessment.
How SpyGlass is used
The SpyGlass system is passed through the endoscope during ERCP,
allowing targeted observation of specific areas within the bile duct.
When appropriate, targeted biopsy can be performed under direct visualization,
allowing tissue sampling from suspicious lesions within the bile duct.
In selected cases, direct visualization may also assist the management of difficult bile duct stones.
Additional procedures are performed based on clinical need and safety considerations.
After the procedure
After cholangioscopy, patients are monitored in the same way as for ERCP,
depending on the procedure performed and underlying condition.
Findings from the examination are used to guide further evaluation
or treatment planning.
Frequently asked question
What is the difference between ERCP and SpyGlass?
ERCP is an endoscopic procedure used to access the bile duct and pancreatic duct.
SpyGlass DS is a specialized cholangioscopy system that can be used during ERCP
to directly view the inside of the duct.
Not all ERCP procedures require SpyGlass. Its use depends on the findings and clinical purpose of the examination.
Appointment
Appointments are required in principle.
A referral letter from another medical institution is recommended but not mandatory.
For appointment requests and language support, please see the
Gastroenterology page.