The use of pancreatic ductoscopy in the operative management of benign and malignant pancreatic disorders

Direct visualization of the pancreatic duct was helpful in decision making during complex pancreaticobiliary operations. Two-, 3-, or 5-mm scopes were introduced into the pancreatic ducts of 32 patients with pancreatic disorders. Scopes were passed into the ductal system of: (1) 16 patients undergoing pancreaticojejunostomy; (2) six patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy; (3) four patients with pancreatic pseudocysts or choledochal cysts: (4) two patients undergoing resection of the pancreatic tail; and (5) two patients undergoing accessory ductoplasty for pancreas divism or stricture. Eight patients had calculi removed utilizing the scope, and multiple strictures were identified and filleted. Pancreatic ductoscopy was used in two patients to document successful sphincteroplasty of an accessory duct. In two instances benign pancreatic duct tumors were removed. Pancreatic ductoscopy was used to search for coexistent duct neoplasms in the eight patients who underwent resection. The technique permits intraoperative inspection, biopsy, and removal of lesions intrinsic to the ductal system. Combined with surgical procedures this endoscopic method proved a useful adjunct in difficult cases.