ERCP
The letters ERCP stand for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. The gastroenterologist uses an endoscope,
a long, thin, flexible tube with a light and camera at the end to help guide the scope throughout the duration of
the procedure. This endoscope is directed through the esophagus, the stomach, and the first part of the small
intestine, called the duodenum.
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Colonoscopy
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ERCP
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EUS
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Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
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Liver Biospy
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Stretta
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Upper GI Endoscopy
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Once the endoscope reaches the papilla, which is the opening of the common
bile duct, the physician injects dye through these ducts, enabling x-rays to be taken.
In order to understand how this procedure can be beneficial, it is important to understand how the bile duct system works.
Bile, a liquid that helps digest fat, is produced by the liver and carried to the gallbladder, where it is stored, through a
series of tubes called ducts. The main duct from the pancreas joins the common bile duct and allows pancreatic juices to
help with further digestion in the duodenum. After eating, both bile and pancreatic juices flow through the papilla and
into the duodenum, where they mix with food and play a major role in digestion.
A physician may recommend an ERCP if the patient is experiencing abdominal pain or jaundice. This procedure is helpful
when these symptoms are caused by gallstones, tumors, or scar tissue obstructing the bile duct. After using x-ray
imaging to discover the nature of the obstruction, the endoscopist is usually able to clear the ducts. This is done
by cutting open the papilla and then either pushing or pulling the stone out, or by inserting a device, such as an
inflatable balloon, to help stretch scar tissue.
The patient remains comfortable during the procedure with the help of IV sedation. The drugs will enable the patient
to remain semi-conscious throughout the procedure, but will most likely prevent the patient from remembering the experience.
The duration of the procedure is normally about 40 minutes. Afterwards, the patient waits in the recovery room while
the anesthetic wears off. Once the medication fades away, the patient may feel soreness in the back of the throat.
Due to the lingering effects from the sedation, the patient cannot drive or work for the remainder of the day, and
therefore must have a ride home.
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