MRCP and ERCP: competitive or complementary?

Background: Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is a non-invasive alternative to diagnostic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for investigating the biliary and pancreatic ductal systems. With the use of MRCP the unnecessary complications of the diagnostic ERCP may be prevented. The aim of the study was to compare the findings of MRCP with those of ERCP in patients with suspected biliary obstruction. Methods and aims: Between the year 2005 and 2007, 106 patients underwent MRCP examinations in Győr, in the International Medical Center. The numbers of MRCP increased rapidly in eac…