ERCP Procedure

ERCP Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography

What is ERCP? ERCP (Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) is a procedure that uses a combination of X-rays and an endoscope to diagnose and treat abnormalities in the pancreas, bile ducts, gallbladder and liver.

ERCP procedure is performed by the Gastroenterologist (doctors who specialize in gastrointestinal disorders).

Why do Gastroenterologist uses ERCP Procedure?

Gastroenterologist uses ERCP to diagnose and treat problems that affects • •

•

Bile ducts, including cancer, stones and strictures.

Gallbladder, including gallstones and cholecystitis (inflamed gallbladder).

Pancreas, including pancreatitis (inflamed, swollen pancreas), pancreatic cancer and pancreatic cysts and pseudocysts.

What to Expect before the ERCP Procedure Before the ERCP procedure you doctor may ask you to take certain step to follow, that may includes: • • • • •

Don’t eat, drink or smoke for at least six hours before the procedure.

You need to inform if you have any allergies, specially allergic reactions to intravenous (IV) contrast dyes You need to inform the doctors about your ongoing medications & supplement Inform your doctors if you are pregnant Stop using blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin and warfarin.

What to Expect after the ERCP Procedure Since this procedure requires the insertion of endoscope through throat to esophagus and stomach to reach the upper part of the small intestine (duodenum) to diagnose the affected organs, because of the procedure you may come across following uneasiness

• It may irritate the throat after the procedure, which may require you to eat soft foods for few days • You may experience bloating and nausea