Interventional Endoscopy

To make an appointment, call 314-747-WUIE (9843).

Interventional endoscopy is a division of Gastroenterology that performs pancreatic and biliary endoscopy and advanced staging of digestive tumors and pancreatic tumors. Two main procedures include endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS):

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

ERCP is a specialized technique used to study the drainage ducts of the gallbladder, pancreas and liver. The procedure is used primarily to diagnose and treat conditions of the bile ducts, including gallstones, inflammatory blockages from scarring, leaks (from trauma and surgery) and cancer.

Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS)

EUS allows the doctor to examine the stomach lining, and the walls of the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract, as well as study internal organs that are close to the GI tract, like the gall bladder and pancreas. EUS can be used to diagnose the cause of conditions such as abdominal pain or abnormal weight loss. It can also be used to evaluate an abnormality, such as a lump, or diseases of the pancreas, bile duct or gallbladder. For patients with cancer, it can help accurately assess the cancer’s depth and whether it has spread to adjacent lymph nodes. In some cases, it can be used to obtain biopsy samples.

Non-surgical bariatric endoscopy weight-loss

To make an appointment, call 314-362-2652
Take the first step: Sign up for a free informational session

Washington University now offers an intragastric balloon system as an addition to lifestyle interventions for weight loss. This 12-month program includes: a medical evaluation, device insertion and removal, monthly group sessions and individual/personalized lifestyle coaching from a behavioral counselor and a registered dietitian. Physical therapy evaluations are available for patients with barriers to movement.

Placement of the balloon is an endoscopic outpatient procedure. Once it is in the stomach, the balloon is filled with a saline solution and deployed. The balloon induces feelings of satiety, aiding in effective weight loss.

Candidates for bariatric endoscopy include those who:

• Have a BMI between 30 to 40, with other diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure or sleep apnea
• Have attempted weight-loss through diet and exercise without success
• Have not been diagnosed with esophageal reflux disease or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Have not had previous surgeries in the small intestine or stomach, exception is an uncomplicated appendectomy surgery
• Have not had previous bariatric surgery 
• Are not on blood thinners
• Are age 22 and above

This program is offered at Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital.