How long after ERCP can biliary stricture return?

[starr_t]

Hello.  I have been having problems with my biliary tract for almost 2 years now (just recently found out what it was!).  Anyways, after almost 2 years of having nausea, severe constipation, & some RUQ tenderness, I decided to switch doctors.  I had several test during the previous 2 years, but they just kept telling me I was constipated from medication I take and this was making me nauseated, even though a year before I had elevated liver enzymes.   They kind of treated me like it was all in my head.  So, after my doc refused to call me back regarding my thyroid meds, which ended up in me running out of them (I was going out of town and my COBRA was not going to be effective until 2 weeks from the many calls I placed), I switched doctors.  I had told her about the nausea and previous 2 years of problems, so she ordered an ultrasound of my gallbladder.  This showed my CBD was dialated.  She was only going to have me go for the MRCP if my labs were abnormal again...which they were not, but decided to send me anyways.  This showed that not only was the CBD dilated, but also pancreatic and intrahepatic.  My test results, as well as my PCP never mentioned that I had stones, however, a year before, I did have an episode of severe pain in my RUQ that almost led me to the ER, other than that I did not have much pain at all.]'   I was ordered the ERCP and had it about 5 weeks ago.  The gastro doc did the ERCP that week and even overbooked to get me in, which made me worried bc the MRCP had indicated tumor or neoplasm needed to be ruled out.  The test went well and a sphincterotomy was performed.  I was told everything looked great after and the problem was scar tissue from passing a gallstone, though none were actually present.  I was told to follow up in 2 months and if I had anymore problems I would be referred to a surgeon for removal of my gallbladder since stones were present in it.  Well, I felt great for about 3-4 weeks.  No nausea and no constipation.  Then I started feeling like the nausea was returning and then the severe constipation came back.  I called and the Gastro is overbooked and has no office visits.  He jjust went ahead and scheduled another ERCP with extension of the sphincterotomy, which is on Dec. 7th.

My question is, what exactly is an extended sphincterotomy?  Can the scar tissue returrn this quickly?  I also thought I would be referred to a surgeon for removal, but the nurse told me he said if this one doesn't help, then he would refer me.  I am just confused as to why and not being able to sit down with the doc and ask him questions bc he has no open office visits just has me wondering.  Could this be something more serious?

One of the big problems is the cost.  I have already had to pay almost $2500 out of pocket for the last tests and with my being laid off (as well as my fiance), the financial burden has me worried.  I have almost met my out of pocket max on my insurance deductible, but if I also need my gqall bladder removed, it will not be until after the 1st of the year and I will have to start all over with  my deductible.  I hate that money has to even be a factor in my health, but it is a huge concern with my situation.

Sorry for the very long post, I was just wondering if anyone else had similar symptoms, etc.  Thanks for reading my post!

[starr_t]

Oh, I had no idea it could be from April to April.  That would be great.  I will double check.  Thanks so much!

[LindaTX]

Hi and welcome to Medhelp!  I admire your determination and tenacity in getting to the bottom of your problems.  I don't have any real help to offer except double- check with your insurance co. and see if your deductible runs from Jan. to Jan. or as many do, from April 1st to April 1st.  It might offer you a little more time to get things taken care of. Good luck.  You can learn a lot on this website.

[starr_t]

Oh, some other things I have been experiencing is night sweats (awful...wake up drenched and freezing!), all over itching, horrible gas and some heartburn.  Can these be associated with the GI issues?

Thanks!