Pancreatic cancer is the 12th most common cancer worldwide. In the US alone, approximately 60,430 people will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year. Biliary obstructions are a common condition associated with pancreatic cancer. Patients with biliary obstructions often experience discomfort, such as abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea and vomiting, jaundice, and fever. Left untreated, biliary obstructions can lead to serious complications, including infection.
To help treat this patient population, Merit Medical offers the ReSolve ConvertX Biliary Stent System, a unique technology designed for temporary internal drainage in individuals with severe biliary obstructions.
The below case study and physician discussion presents successful treatment of a biliary obstruction with the ReSolve ConvertX in a patient with terminal pancreatic cancer.
CASE STUDY
Patient Profile: Elderly patient with terminal pancreatic cancer. Malignant tumor growth led to obstructions in the right and left hepatic ducts. Traditional bilateral biliary drains were placed to relieve symptoms of jaundice, infections, and abdominal pain.
Complications: Patient experienced frequent accidental pulling on the external portion of the drainage systems and returned to the interventional radiology department for multiple reinterventions. Lesions developed due to bile leakage through the existing track and irritating the skin. Patient also expressed that the two external bags were burdensome.
Procedure: Both biliary drains were removed over an Amplatz-style wire and were replaced with the ReSolve ConvertX Biliary Stent System. After both ReSolve ConvertX drains were in place, they were each converted, leaving only the stent portions in place.
Outcomes/Results: After placement, patient was happy with the treatment and able to experience relief and an improvement in quality of life.
Sample flouro of ReSolve ConvertX Biliary Stent Placement
Listen in as Mark H. LeQuire, MD, FACR, Diagnostic, Vascular & Interventional Radiologist at Montgomery Radiology Associates, discusses this case further in an in-depth interview.
ReSolve ConvertX Tip
- When placing bilaterally, ensure both systems are in place before stent conversion. If the first drain is converted to a stent before the second one is in place, it increases the risk of dislodging the first stent while placing the second.
Learn more about the advantages the ReSolve ConvertX can offer your patients and practice by visiting the product page or contacting the Merit Customer Support Center.