ERCP - Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography, is a specialized medical procedure used to diagnose and treat various conditions related to the biliary and pancreatic ducts.
What is ERCP?
ERCP is a minimally invasive imaging test that allows to gain access to your bile ducts and pancreatic ducts through an endoscope - a thin, flexible tube with a camera at its tip. This procedure combines endoscopy with fluoroscopy (moving X-rays) to provide real-time visualization and diagnostics.
Why is it Performed?
- Unexplained Upper Abdominal Pain: Persistent discomfort in the upper abdomen could be a sign of issues within the biliary tract.
- Biliary Colic: Frequent episodes of pain caused by gallstones or other blockages in the bile ducts.
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes, which may indicate bile flow disruption.
How is Works?
- Anesthesia: You will receive intravenous anesthesia to ensure comfort and minimize discomfort during the procedure.
- Endoscope Insertion: An endoscope is passed through your mouth and guided down your throat, through the stomach, and into the top of the small intestine (duodenum). The endoscope projects images onto a screen.
- Contrast Dye Injection: A smaller tube is inserted through the endoscope, reaching the opening of the bile and pancreatic ducts within the duodenum. Contrast dye is injected into these ducts, enhancing their visibility in X-rays.
- Fluoroscopy: Real-time video X-rays (fluoroscopy) capture the movement of the contrast dye, allowing healthcare providers to identify blockages, narrowing, or other issues within the ducts.
- Treatment: If any issues are detected during the procedure, your doctor can address them immediately through the endoscope using specialized tools. This may involve removing gallstones, taking tissue samples for biopsy, dilating narrow ducts, placing stents, or making necessary repairs.
Preparing for ERCP
To prepare for ERCP, follow these general guidelines:
- Fast for at least 8 hours before the test.
- Discuss your medical conditions and medications with your doctor, as some medications, especially blood thinners, may need to be temporarily discontinued.
- Inform your provider about any prior reactions or allergies to contrast dye or anesthesia.
What to Expect After ERCP?
- You may experience a sore throat and mild difficulty swallowing, which should improve with time.
- Some bloating or gas pain may occur temporarily due to the gas used to inflate your gastrointestinal tract.
- Nausea, if present, will typically subside within a day.
ERCP is a valuable diagnostic and therapeutic tool that allows doctors to investigate and address issues within your biliary and pancreatic ducts. If you suspect problems related to your biliary system or have been recommended for an ERCP, consult with your doctor to discuss your individual needs and concerns.
Take control of your health today - schedule an appointment with us to learn more about ERCP and how it can benefit you.
