🔍 Key Findings
- Endoscopic-assisted retrograde catheterization (EARC) and laser sphincterotomy were successful in 18/18 cadavers, demonstrating technical feasibility.
- Intramural common bile duct (ICBD) length ranged from 10 to 21 mm (mean 15.8 mm), with no correlation to body weight (r = 0.06, p = .79).
- Transition from ICBD to extramural duct was accurately identified endoscopically in 88% (16/18); transition was heralded by separation of the submucosal layer.
- Partial lateral perforations occurred in 2/18 dogs, only during early learning phase; no leakage was found on open dissection.
- Laser sphincterotomy preserved the pancreatic duct orifice, aided by protective catheter positioning.
- Compared to open duodenotomy, this technique allows for a smaller incision and less manipulation of the pancreas, which may reduce morbidity.
- No adverse events such as intra-abdominal saline egress or full-thickness perforation occurred, and the technique allowed safe access up to 10 mm from the MDP.
- Cadaveric limitations included absence of biliary pathology and inability to evaluate live complications, but the technique shows promise for future live animal trials.
