According to an article in the World Journal of Gastroenterology, doctors performed between 350,000 and 500,000 Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatographies (ERCPs) in the U.S. in 2019.
For readers unfamiliar with this, an ERCP is a procedure that combines upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy and x-rays to treat problems of the bile and pancreatic ducts.
Doctors perform ERCP when bile or pancreatic ducts become narrowed or blocked. During the procedure, the doctor passes tiny tools through an endoscope to open blocked or narrowed ducts, break up or remove stones, perform a biopsy, remove tumors in the ducts, or insert stents to hold the ducts open.
Like other medically invasive procedures, ERCP has risks. Acute pancreatitis is among the most common. Post ERCP pancreatitis can lead to severe complications, including pancreatic necrosis (death of the pancreatic tissue), organ failure, and even death. It’s a frequent basis for ERCP-related malpractice claims.
Endoscopic sphincterotomy performed during ERCP is a common cause of post ERCP pancreatitis. The sphincter, or group of muscles that controls the flow of pancreatic fluid and bile, is cut or stretched to allow the removal of stones and allow the doctor to stretch the narrowed areas of the patient’s pancreatic or biliary ducts. A stent may be temporarily inserted to prevent the narrowed region from returning to its narrowed state. Lacerations, bruising, or other damage caused by the instruments or stents can result in acute pancreatitis, so it’s important that the instruments and stents used are smooth, flexible, and precise.
This is where our Freeman stents come in. After more than 100,000 successful implants, these reputable devices have been shown to help prevent post ERCP pancreatitis.
Developed with the help of Gastroenterologist Dr. Martin Freeman over 20 years ago, the Freeman Pancreatic Flexi-Stent is manufactured from a softer, more pliable material that easily follows the contours of a tortuous pancreatic duct – and it won’t kink. These stents have an external mark to aid in endoscopic positioning of the stent, and a small retaining flange to minimize the risk of duct trauma. Also, a small pigtail radius prevents interference with the involuntary muscle movement of the first section of the small intestine, an action known as “duodenal peristalsis.” These combined features make our Freeman stents less likely to cause trauma, thereby reducing patients’ risk of post ERCP pancreatitis.
Hobbs’ Freeman stents also offer several other advantages. They’re compatible with current exchange systems, making them a convenient choice. Also, they’re available in straight or pigtail models and they come in a wide range of diameters and lengths.
Finally, with Hobbs Medical there are no minimum quantity purchase requirements, and we offer same day shipping. If price is a factor (when isn’t it?), it’s important to note that we sell directly to end users, which helps us to keep our prices competitive.
We hope you’ll consider Hobbs’ Freeman stents for your next ERCP. After all, there’s nothing to lose but the risk of acute pancreatitis.
