Rare procedure done to save pregnant patient

In a remarkable medical achievement, a senior doctor has successfully performed a radiation-free Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) on a pregnant patient using Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) guidance, a rare interventional endoscopic procedure warranting extensive skill and proficiency.

The ERCP is a procedure used to relieve bile duct blockages by conditions such as stones or tumors.

The innovative, minimally invasive procedure was conducted by Dr Gaurav Muktesh, Consultant Gastroenterologist at Al Zahra Hospital Dubai who opted for EUS guidance instead of traditional X Rays, eliminating the use of radiation — a critical consideration for fetal safety during pregnancy.

The patient, in her first trimester of pregnancy, was experiencing biliary obstruction due to bile duct stones and had severe pain in the abdomen. Conventionally, ERCP procedures rely on real-time X-ray imaging, which involves radiation exposure. Radiation can be seriously dangerous for the developing baby in the initial few months of pregnancy as babies organs are developing In this case, the team employed a cutting-edge technique combining endoscopic visualisation with endoscopic ultrasound to safely access and treat the bile duct stones without any radiation.

Dr. Gaurav Muktesh led the procedure and emphasised its significance: “Pregnancy complicates the management of biliary diseases due to concerns over fetal exposure to radiation. With this radiation-free ERCP using EUS, we were able to successfully relieve the patient’s symptoms and protect the unborn baby from any potential harm. Patient could be discharged within 24 hours from the procedure in a healthy state.” This milestone showcases the hospital’s dedication to patient safety, innovation, and excellence in clinical care.

The procedure not only reflects Al Zahra Hospital’s advanced capabilities in endoscopic techniques but also sets a precedent for safer treatment options for pregnant women in the region.

Al Zahra Hospital Dubai continues to lead in adopting international best practices and pioneering techniques, reinforcing its position as one of the region’s foremost centersfor advanced gastroenterology and maternal care.