General Information
ERCP is a sophisticated study of the bile ducts and the pancreas. This study is the gold standard for evaluation of biliary and pancreatic abnormalities. ERCP is performed to remove gallstones in the common bile duct, evaluate the pancreas and treat gallstone pancreatitis.
Indications
There are many reasons for an ERCP to be performed. Common reasons for an ERCP to be performed include diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the bile ducts such as Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and remove stones from the common bile duct. The pancreas can also be evaluated during the procedure. Common reasons for pancreatic disorders include pancreatic stones, strictures (narrowing) of the pancreatic duct, chronic pancreatitis and pancreas divisum.
Alternatives to ERCP
Other methods used to evaluate the biliary duct are CT scans, Ultrasound and MRI cholangiography (MRC). Other less commonly used tests include a HIDA scan and percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography. These tests may be done prior or after an ERCP in order to provide additional information to your physician.
The complications of ERCP are:
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Perforation |
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Allergic Reaction to medications. |
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Bleeding |
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Infection |
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Pancreatitis (approximately 3%) |
Before the Procedure (Preparation)
You should discuss your medication with your physician prior to the procedure. Usually, medications are not taken the morning of the procedure. However, some medications should be taken if the procedure is to be done later in the afternoon. Adjustments in your insulin dose should also be discussed with the physician.
You should not eat or drink any food or liquids, unless approved by your physician, for approximately 12 hours before the procedure. No other special preparations are required. Depending upon your individual medical problems, you may require antibiotics before the procedure. If you have a history heart problems involving the valves of the heart or have had antibiotics before dental work, please inform your physician well in advance. This will allow the hospital staff time to prepare and administer these medications.
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Other Endoscopic Procedures
- Colonoscopy |
ERCP |
Esophageal Manometry |
EGD |
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy |
Liver Biopsy
Related Links
- Definitions |
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Patient Education:
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