ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is a minimally invasive technique combining endoscopy and X-ray imaging for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts. The surgeon inserts an endoscope through the mouth into the duodenum and injects contrast agent for X-ray visualization to observe lesions in the bile ducts and pancreas. Compared to traditional surgery, ERCP is less invasive, has a faster recovery time, and allows for procedures such as stone removal, dilation of strictures, and stent placement during the diagnostic process, providing a one-stop minimally invasive treatment. ERCP Surgery Introduction ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure combining endoscopy and X-ray imaging, primarily used for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts. The surgeon inserts an endoscope into the opening of the duodenum, locates the entrances to the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts, and injects contrast agent to visualize the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts under X-ray. This technique helps doctors observe lesions in the biliary system, such as obstruction, inflammation, stones, or tumors. In addition, ERCP can perform a variety of therapeutic procedures, including dilating strictures, removing stones, and placing stents. **Indications for ERCP** ERCP is a minimally invasive technique performed under endoscopic and X-ray guidance, widely used for the diagnosis and treatment of biliary and pancreatic diseases. The main consumables used in the procedure include contrast catheters, papillary incision scalpels, drainage tubes, injection needles, and stone retrieval baskets, which help physicians achieve precise manipulation, contrast imaging, and lesion treatment. High-quality catheter consumables are crucial for improving the success rate of ERCP procedures and reducing the risk of complications. Used in the following situations: Biliary obstruction: Biliary obstruction caused by gallstones, biliary strictures, or tumors. Pancreatic diseases: Including pancreatic duct strictures, pancreatitis, pancreatic tumors, etc. Biliary duct stones: ERCP can be used to remove stones within the bile duct.

Bile tract infection: For example, cholangitis caused by bacterial infection, ERCP can help clear the obstruction causing the infection.

Pancreatobiliary fistula: For example, pancreatic fistula or bile duct injury, ERCP can achieve drainage or stent placement to restore normal passage.

Main steps of ERCP surgery

Endoscopic insertion and positioning: The doctor inserts the endoscope through the patient's mouth, through the esophagus and stomach into the duodenum. After locating the duodenal papilla (the opening of the bile duct and pancreatic duct), the specific insertion point is determined. This process requires precise manipulation to ensure the endoscope reaches the designated location and avoids accidental entry into other parts of the digestive tract.

Insertion of contrast catheter and injection of contrast agent: A contrast catheter is inserted into the duodenal papilla, and contrast agent is injected through the catheter to visualize the bile duct and pancreatic duct under X-ray.

The injection of contrast agent allows doctors to visualize the shape and location of lesions, aiding in further diagnosis. Therapeutic Procedures: Dilution of Stenosis: If there is stenosis in the bile duct or pancreatic duct, the stenosis can be dilated by placing a guidewire and balloon catheter. Stone Removal: In the case of stones in the bile duct or pancreatic duct, stones can be removed using a stone retrieval basket or balloon. Stent Placement: If the patient's bile duct stenosis is severe, the doctor may place a drainage tube or stent to maintain the unobstructed flow of bile or pancreatic juice. Tissue Sample Collection: If abnormal lesions or tumors are found, the doctor can use specialized biopsy forceps to collect tissue samples for pathological analysis.

**Main Catheter Consumables in ERCP Surgery**

Cannulation Catheters

Function: Cannulation catheters are used to inject contrast agents into the bile duct or pancreatic duct for radiographic visualization. The design of the catheters allows for flexible insertion and manipulation in complex anatomical structures.

Design Features:

High Flexibility: Cannulation catheters are typically made of soft materials, allowing them to pass smoothly through the digestive tract and avoiding damage to gastrointestinal tissues.

Precise Positioning: The finely designed tip ensures accurate positioning by the physician in complex areas.

Sphincterotome Function: The sphincterotome is an electrosurgical scalpel used to incise the duodenal papilla, widening the entrances to the bile duct and pancreatic duct to facilitate the insertion of catheters and other instruments. Design Features: Adjustable Angle: The sphincterotome is designed to allow surgeons to adjust the angle to suit different lesion conditions. Electrocoagulation Function: The sphincterotome can perform electrocoagulation simultaneously during the incision process to reduce bleeding. Drainage Stents Function: Drainage stents are used to maintain the patency of the bile duct or pancreatic duct, especially in cases of bile duct obstruction or stricture, allowing for long-term drainage. Design Features: Resistant to Bile and Pancreatic Juice Corrosion: The selected materials are corrosion-resistant and suitable for long-term use. Multi-hole Design: The drainage tube has multiple drainage holes to ensure smooth drainage of bodily fluids and prevent blockage. Injection Needles Function: Injection needles are used to administer anesthetics or medications during surgery, and sometimes to inject contrast agents to enhance X-ray imaging. Design Features: Fine Needle Design: The fine needle tip ensures precise injection and minimizes impact on tissues. Good Maneuverability: The injection needle can be angled for precise injection during procedures. Stone Extraction Basket Function: Used to extract stones from the bile duct or pancreatic duct. The basket is made of durable woven steel wire. Design Features: High-strength gripping: The basket's intricate design ensures safe stone extraction. Adjustable size: The opening angle of the basket can be flexibly adjusted according to the size of the stone. ERCP is a minimally invasive technique performed under endoscopic and X-ray guidance, widely used for the diagnosis and treatment of bile duct and pancreatic diseases. Key consumables used in the procedure include contrast catheters, papillary incision scalpels, drainage tubes, injection needles, and stone extraction baskets, helping doctors achieve precise manipulation, contrast imaging, and lesion treatment. High-quality catheter consumables are crucial for improving the success rate of ERCP procedures and reducing the risk of complications.