Studies on the functional disturbances of the papillary region using a pressure sensor.

Investigation of the duodenal papilla and the bile duct by EPCG is essential to diagnose the organic and functional disturbances of the papillary region. We have developed a pressure sensor based on a semi-conductor in order to obtain a more objective observation of pathological conditions in the papillary region. Using a duodenofiberscope, the pressure sensor was placed on the tip of canula, and it was inserted into the papilla and measured the movements of the papillary region. The pressure sensor method was carried out in 18 normal subjects and 69 patients with various diseases. As the result of analysis of wave forms in normal subjects, regular wave form patterns were obtained. In about 71% of cases with biliary diseases irregular wave forms were observed. Irregular wave form patterns were also observed 40% of cases with cholecystolithiasis, while irregular patterns were revealed in 86% cases with choledocholithiasis. The pressure sensor method during for duodenofiberscopy is important diagnostic procedure for the determination of functional disturbances in the papillary region.