Biliary and pancreatic stents.
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is one of the most challenging and demanding procedures performed in endoscopy units. Many endoscopy staff nurses become overwhelmed by the complexity of patient management and the realm of equipment necessary in providing endoscopic therapy for patients with biliary and pancreatic disease. The case of Ray, a 45-year-old patient, is used in this article to demonstrate the current value of biliary stenting and its potential impact on a patient's life. An understanding of the indications for and uses of stents in the treatment of biliary occlusion and pancreatic disease will provide a foundation for those assisting in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography.
Slattery
Jim
J
Endoscopy Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA. ERCPRN@aol.com
D001649:Bile Duct Diseases / Q000451:nursing / Q000628:therapy*; D002760:Cholangiopancreatography, Endoscopic Retrograde / Q000379:methods*; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010182:Pancreatic Diseases / Q000451:nursing / Q000628:therapy*; D010183:Pancreatic Ducts; D011788:Quality of Life; D015607:Stents