Endoscopic papillotomy under ultra-sonographic control.

A new endoscopic method for performing endoscopic sphincterotomy is described. Only after correct positioning of the papillotomy device has been ascertained can papillotomy be carried out. We have used ultra-sonographic examination to confirm the correct placement of the papillotomy device. This technique was first employed on a pregnant patient in 6-13-1988. After that we performed this procedure in another twelve patients. We believe it is an easy procedure and perhaps may be used for all patients with common bile duct stones of less than 1.2 cm of diameter without other bilio-pancreatic pathological condition.