Kishiwada Tokushukai Hospital > Gastroenterology > SpyGlass DS Cholangioscopy

SpyGlass DS Cholangioscopy

What we do
Cholangioscopy using the SpyGlass DS system
Target area
Bile duct and pancreatic duct
Approach
Direct visualization to support diagnostic assessment

SpyGlass DS is a cholangioscopy system used during endoscopic procedures
to allow direct visualization of the bile duct.
It is considered when standard imaging or ERCP findings are inconclusive.

What is 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 more detailed assessment
of ductal abnormalities 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

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, tissue samples can be obtained under direct visualization
to support pathological diagnosis.

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.

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.