What type of endoscopic procedures are generally associated with low bleeding risk?

Procedures that involve diagnostic techniques and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) without sphincterotomy are generally associated with a low risk of bleeding. Diagnostic procedures typically include visual inspection and sampling techniques that do not involve significant tissue destruction or manipulation, thus minimizing the likelihood of hemorrhage.

In the case of ERCP without sphincterotomy, the procedure focuses on the visualization and manipulation of the bile and pancreatic ducts without incising the sphincter of Oddi, which contributes to a safer approach with less vascular disruption. As a result, the likelihood of bleeding complications is significantly reduced compared to more invasive procedures.

On the other hand, polypectomy and stricture dilation involve the removal or dilation of tissue, which carries a higher risk of bleeding due to the potential for vascular damage. Similarly, therapeutic procedures in general, such as endoscopic sphincterotomy and dilation, are designed to treat specific conditions that require more invasive techniques and thus can increase bleeding risk.