ERCP
Advanced therapeutic procedure for bile duct and pancreatic conditions.
What Is ERCP?
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is a specialized endoscopic procedure that combines endoscopy with X-ray imaging to diagnose and treat conditions of the bile ducts, gallbladder, and pancreas. During ERCP, your doctor passes an endoscope through your mouth to the point where the bile duct and pancreatic duct empty into the small intestine. A contrast dye is then injected, and X-rays are taken to reveal blockages, narrowing, or other abnormalities.
This is one of the most technically demanding GI procedures and is performed by physicians with additional training and experience.
Why Would I Need an ERCP?
- Gallstones — stones that have moved from the gallbladder into the bile duct
- Bile duct obstruction — blockages that can cause jaundice, dark urine, or pale stools
- Pancreatitis — recurrent or unexplained inflammation of the pancreas
- Bile duct strictures — narrowing of the bile ducts that may be benign or malignant
- Stent placement — to open narrowed ducts and restore normal flow
- Tissue diagnosis — obtaining biopsies from suspicious areas in the bile duct or pancreas
What to Expect
Before the Procedure
You will need to fast for at least 6 to 8 hours before ERCP. Tell your doctor about all medications you take, especially blood thinners.
During the Procedure
You will receive sedation or anesthesia to keep you comfortable. The procedure typically takes 30 to 90 minutes depending on what your doctor finds and whether therapeutic interventions are needed. Your doctor may remove gallstones, place stents, stretch narrowed areas, or take biopsies — all during the same procedure.
After the Procedure
You will be monitored in our recovery area. Your doctor will discuss initial findings with you before you go home. You will need someone to drive you. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to review biopsy results if tissue samples were taken.