Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Hepaticogastrostomy for a Benign Biliary Stricture in a Patient Allergic to Both Iodinated and Gadolinium Contrast Media: A Case Report

Cureus. 2025 Jan 7;17(1):e77072. doi: 10.7759/cureus.77072. eCollection 2025 Jan.

Abstract

Allergic reactions to iodinated and gadolinium contrast media, though rare, present significant challenges in managing biliary obstructions. This case report describes a novel approach to biliary drainage in a patient with such allergies using endoscopic ultrasound-guided hepaticogastrostomy (EUS-HGS). An 81-year-old woman with multiple allergies, including to both iodinated and gadolinium contrast media, developed a benign biliary stricture following repeated radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma. Standard endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was contraindicated due to these allergies. An EUS-HGS was successfully performed, achieving effective biliary drainage through ultrasound-guided puncture and stent placement without the use of contrast agents. The procedure was complication-free, and the patient's hepatobiliary enzyme levels improved significantly postoperatively. An EUS-HGS offers a safe and effective alternative for biliary drainage in patients with dual contrast agent allergies, especially when conventional methods are not viable. This case highlights the potential of EUS-HGS in addressing complex clinical challenges.

Keywords: allergic; endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ercp); endoscopic ultrasound-guided hepaticogastrostomy; gadolinium contrast; iodinated contrast media.

Publication types

  • Case Reports