Does endoscopic digital pancreatography constitute an advance in pancreatic imaging?
BACKGROUND
From a technological viewpoint, there have been few advances in retrograde pancreatography since the inception of ERCP despite remarkable advances in other radiographic techniques such as CT and magnetic resonance imaging. We describe a new method of pancreatographic imaging, endoscopic digital pancreatography, based on digital image intensification.


METHODS
Thirty-two nonconsecutive patients with various pancreatic diseases were entered into the study. Pancreatography was performed using standard technique with a non-ionic, low osmolarity contrast medium. In addition to conventional pancreatographic x-rays, digital images were acquired and then processed by means of computer-assisted technical modalities. Both pancreatograms were evaluated by two independent investigators.


RESULTS
Digital pancreatography was rated as superior to conventional pancreatography in terms of overall quality as well as specific parameters. X-ray dosage was significantly higher and fluoroscopy time significantly longer for conventional pancreatography.


CONCLUSIONS
Endoscopic digital pancreatography represents a significant advance, one with several important advantages compared with conventional pancreatography.
Department of Gastroenterology and Radiology, Cardarelli Hospital, Naples, Italy.
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D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002760:Cholangiopancreatography, Endoscopic Retrograde; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010182:Pancreatic Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D011856:Radiographic Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods