Skip to main content
 
 

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

 

What is an Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)?

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a medical procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the bile ducts, pancreatic duct, and gallbladder. It combines endoscopy and fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray imaging) to visualize and access the bile and pancreatic ducts for therapeutic interventions.

Here is an overview of the ERCP procedure:

  1. Preparation: Before the procedure, the patient may need to fast for several hours to ensure the gastrointestinal tract is empty. An intravenous (IV) line may be inserted to administer sedatives or anesthesia for comfort during the procedure.
  2. Endoscope insertion: The endoscope, a long, flexible tube with a light and camera at the tip, is inserted through the mouth and guided down the esophagus, stomach, and into the first part of the small intestine called the duodenum.
  3. Identification of the papilla: The papilla of Vater, a small opening where the common bile duct and pancreatic duct drain into the duodenum, is located using the endoscope's camera.
  4. Cannulation and contrast injection: A small plastic tube called a cannula is passed through the endoscope into the papilla. Contrast dye is then injected through the cannula into the ducts, allowing X-ray imaging to visualize their structure and identify any abnormalities.
  5. Imaging and diagnosis: Fluoroscopy is used to capture X-ray images in real-time as the contrast flows through the ducts. This helps detect conditions such as gallstones, bile duct strictures, tumors, or pancreatic duct issues.
  6. Therapeutic interventions: If abnormalities or blockages are identified, various procedures can be performed during ERCP to treat the condition. These interventions may include sphincterotomy (cutting the muscle surrounding the papilla), stone removal, stent placement to open blocked ducts, or tissue sampling (biopsy) for further analysis.
  7. Completion and recovery: Once the necessary interventions are completed, the endoscope is removed. The patient is then taken to a recovery area to allow the effects of sedation or anesthesia to wear off. After a period of observation, the patient can usually resume a normal diet, unless specific instructions are given by the healthcare provider.

ERCP is generally considered safe, but there are potential risks, including pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), bleeding, infection, or perforation of the gastrointestinal tract. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with your healthcare provider, and to follow any pre-procedure instructions provided.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our Endoscopy Center specialists, please call 515.875.9115.