SpyGlass

Cabell Huntington Hospital is using new minimally invasive technology to help diagnose and treat diseases and conditions in the bile duct, hepatic ducts and pancreas.

This advanced technology, the SpyGlass™ DS Direct Visualization System, enables high resolution imaging and helps doctors quickly and accurately determine a gastroenterology patient's medical condition.

An estimated 500,000 individuals undergo endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) procedures (a technique that combines the use of endoscopy and fluoroscopy to diagnose and treat certain problems of the biliary or pancreatic ductal systems) each year in the U.S. for liver, gallbladder, pancreas and bile duct problems. During an ERCP procedure, the SpyGlass DS System is used to help investigate, confirm and treat conditions such as gallstones, suspected malignancies (such as pancreatic cancer), bile duct strictures and cystic lesions.

SpyGlass is a fiber-optic camera, about the size of a pencil point, which is inserted into the upper digestive tract and threaded through the stomach and into the bile ducts. This allows doctors to quickly and precisely locate and examine tissue without performing surgery.

Early detection is critical to improving outcomes in patients suffering from any biliary or pancreatic issues. This system can be performed as an extension of any ERCP procedure. This results in more efficient evaluation and helps reduce the need for additional testing and repeat procedures, enabling patients to receive treatment sooner. Using SpyGlass I can quickly find and immediately clear obstructions and stones within the biliary tract.

SpyGlass also uses a light probe and miniature forceps to take tissue samples. This allows physicians to receive an enhanced view of the exact spot for biopsy, an advantage that is not possible with other diagnostic procedures.

Other benefits of SpyGlass include:

• quicker and more precise diagnosis;
• better visualization and mobility for the physician;
• fewer repeat procedures;
• ability to perform immediate biopsies in full view; and,
• reduced exposure to X-rays.

To learn more about the SpyGlass DS Direct Visualization System or to make an appointment,  please call 304.691.1000.