[The effect of caerulein on intraluminal pressures of the common bile duct and duodenum in man (author's transl)].

Caerulein is a dekapeptide related to gastrin and cholecystokinin with profound effects on gastrointestinal motility. In the present study we examined the effect of intravenously administered caerulein (0.1 microgram/kg body weight) on the intraluminal pressure of common bile duct and duodenum in 12 patients. The pressure recordings were obtained by endoscopic perfusion manometry. The tip of the perfused catheter was positioned under radiological control and the measurements were carried out under standardized conditions. Following the injection of caerulein there was a rise in pressure in the common bile duct and the mid portion of the duodenum. The pressure increase in the common duct appears to be predominantly due to contraction of the gallbladder as it is considerably less pronounced in patients with cholecystectomy. The problems inherent to endoscopic pressure recordings under pharmacological stimulation are discussed.