ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) is a procedure in which the doctor passes an endoscope through the mouth into the duodenum, reaches the opening of the bile duct and pancreatic duct, and uses X-rays and contrast dye to see and treat the ducts. It is used mainly for treatment, while other tests usually make the diagnosis.
When is it needed?
- Bile duct stones causing pain, jaundice or infection.
- Blockage or narrowing of the bile ducts.
- Some bile leaks after surgery.
- Some problems of the pancreatic duct.
What can be done with it?
- Removing stones and, when needed, breaking them up.
- Stretching strictures and placing biliary or pancreatic stents.
- Draining bile when there is a blockage.
- Taking samples from suspicious strictures.
Is it always the first test?
No. Assessment may start with blood tests, scans, an MRI of the bile ducts or endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and ERCP is advised when treatment through the endoscope is the right option.
Risks and follow-up
Like any interventional procedure it carries risks, including pancreatitis, bleeding and infection, which are explained to you beforehand together with the benefit and the alternatives. It is done under sedation or anaesthesia, and you may need to stay in hospital for some hours or overnight depending on the case. See a doctor at once if you have severe abdominal pain, fever or vomiting after the procedure.
The information on this website is for health education and does not replace a medical examination or direct consultation.
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