Spyglass Cholangioscopy
Advanced visualization and targeted therapy during ERCP for biliary and pancreatic duct disorders.
What is it?
Spyglass cholangioscopy is an advanced procedure performed during ERCP to directly visualize the bile or pancreatic ducts and guide treatment such as biopsy or stone removal.
Why is it done?
- Difficult-to-remove bile duct stones
- Suspicious bile duct narrowing or tumors
- Need for targeted biopsy
Duration & Recovery Time
- Procedure duration: 60–90 minutes
- Recovery time: 1–2 hours; same-day discharge
Before Your Procedure
- Diet: No food or drink for 6–8 hours before the procedure.
- Antibiotics may be given before.
- Inform your doctor of allergies or prior reactions to contrast dye.
After Your Procedure
- Diet: Resume soft diet once awake. Avoid oily or spicy food for 24 hours.
- Rest & Activity: Rest the full day. No driving for 24 hours.
- Medications: Take all prescribed medications including antibiotics.
- Hygiene: None needed.
- Follow-up: Biopsy results or further steps will be discussed in follow-up visit.
Complications may include
- Cholangitis (bile duct infection)
- Bleeding
- Pancreatitis
- Rare duct injury
See your doctor immediately if you have:
- Fever
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Vomiting or severe pain
- Blood in stool
Not Suitable For (Tell Your Doctor If…)
- Allergy to contrast dye
- Severe cardiac or respiratory conditions
- Unstable medical status
âš Note: Dates are not fixed in advance. Please check this page regularly for upcoming workshop announcements.
Patient Frequently Asked Questions
Spyglass allows direct visualization and targeted therapy within bile/pancreatic ducts, beyond standard ERCP imaging.
Yes, you’ll be sedated.
Yes, with experienced providers complications are rare.
Sometimes follow-up ERCP may be needed depending on findings.
Antibiotics may be given before or after based on clinical indication.
