Research Study for Patients Undergoing Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

Study Summary

The University of Chicago and Dr. Waxman are conducting a study to look at the use of a less expensive, non-invasive and non-radioactive test called MRCP for use in patients with pancreatitis (swollen pancreas). It is similar to ERCP (a test that looks for problems in your pancreas) and provides the same information. ERCP uses x-rays and an endoscope (a long, flexible, lighted tube that is swallowed) to see the inside of your stomach and small intestine. However, MRCP uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI, the use of magnetic waves to look at soft tissues of the body) to produce detailed pictures of the pancreas and gallbladder.

The purpose of this study is to see if an experimental drug taken to help release fluids in the pancreas during the MRCP procedure is safe and effective. The drug is experimental since it has not yet been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

For the purposes of this study, you will be required to come to the University of Chicago for five clinic visits. You will be asked to participate for up to 47 days. During this time, you will undergo the following procedures: physical exams, blood tests, pregnancy tests, urine tests, electrocardiograms, an MRCP procedure as well as an ERCP procedure.

There may or may not be a benefit to you for participating in this study. However, information learned from your participation in this study may contribute to the development of better diagnosis methods for patients with diseases or abnormalities of the pancreas.

Participation Details

Initial selection criteria include:

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Must have a history of pancreatitis
• Must be scheduled for an ERCP procedure
• Must not be pregnant or breast feeding during the study
• Must be available for clinic visits for the duration of the study
• Must meet study medical criteria as evaluated by Dr. Waxman

Study Director: Dr. Irving Waxman
Department: Gastroenterology

For more information contact:
Becky Burdashaw
bburdash@medicine.bsd.uchicago.edu
(773) 834-7859

IRB: #16089A