ERCP Procedure

The purpose of ERCP procedure is to diagnose and treat abnormalities with the pancreas, bile ducts, gallbladder and liver.

1. ERCP
Endoscopic Retrograde
Cholangiopancreatography

2. 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 procedureis performed by
the Gastroenterologist (doctors
who specialize in gastrointestinal
disorders).

3. Why do Gastroenterologist
uses ERCP Procedure?
Gastroenterologist uses ERCP to
diagnose and treat problems that affects
•Bile ducts, including cancer, stones
and strictures.
•Gallbladder,
includinggallstonesandcholecystitis
(inflamed gallbladder).
•Pancreas,
includingpancreatitis(inflamed,
swollen pancreas),pancreatic
cancerandpancreatic cysts and
pseudocysts.

4. 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.

5. 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