SIAG Procedure Spyglass

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What is it?

Spyglass cholangioscopy is an advanced procedure performed during ERCP to directly visualize the bile or pancreatic ducts and guide treatment such as biopsy or stone removal.

Why is it done?

  • Difficult-to-remove bile duct stones
  • Suspicious bile duct narrowing or tumors
  • Need for targeted biopsy

Duration & Recovery Time

  • Procedure duration: 60–90 minutes
  • Recovery time: 1–2 hours; same-day discharge

Before Your Procedure

Diet: No food or drink for 6–8 hours before the procedure.
Antibiotics may be given before.
Inform your doctor of allergies or prior reactions to contrast dye.

After Your Procedure

Diet: Resume soft diet once awake. Avoid oily or spicy food for 24 hours.

Rest & Activity: Rest the full day. No driving for 24 hours.

Medications: Take all prescribed medications including antibiotics.

Hygiene: None needed.

Follow-up: Biopsy results or further steps will be discussed in follow-up visit.

Complications may include:

  • Cholangitis (bile duct infection)
  • Bleeding
  • Pancreatitis
  • Rare duct injury

See your doctor immediately if you have:

  • Fever
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Vomiting or severe pain
  • Blood in stool

Not Suitable For (Tell Your Doctor If…)

  • Allergy to contrast dye
  • Severe cardiac or respiratory conditions
  • Unstable medical status

⚠  Note: Dates are not fixed in advance. Please check this page regularly for upcoming workshop announcements.

Patient Frequently Asked Questions

It allows direct visualization inside the ducts, enabling more precise treatment.

Yes, you’ll be sedated.

 Yes, with experienced hands it’s very safe.

Sometimes, depending on what’s found.

Often yes, to prevent infection.