Pilot feasibility study to determine the utility of direct access and quantitative magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) in the assessment of suspected acute biliary or ductal gallstone presentations

In suspected acute biliary or ductal gallstone presentations, first-line MRCP outperformed ultrasound-led standard care—delivering quicker, more cost-effective diagnosis and obstruction detection. MRCP+ also quantified gallbladder volume and cystic duct width, adding value for triage and management and supporting direct-access MRCP pathways.