ERCP is a procedure that uses an endoscope and x-ray dye to view the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts. During the procedure, tools can be inserted to relieve blockages in these ducts caused by things like gallstones, tumors, or scarring. Patients are sedated for the procedure and monitored afterwards until the effects wear off. Possible side effects include bloating, gas, and stool changes that typically resolve within 24 hours. The results are then discussed with the patient and next steps determined.
ERCP is a procedure that uses an endoscope and x-ray dye to view the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts. During the procedure, tools can be inserted to relieve blockages in these ducts caused by things like gallstones, tumors, or scarring. Patients are sedated for the procedure and monitored afterwards until the effects wear off. Possible side effects include bloating, gas, and stool changes that typically resolve within 24 hours. The results are then discussed with the patient and next steps determined.
ERCP is a procedure that uses an endoscope and x-ray dye to view the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts. During the procedure, tools can be inserted to relieve blockages in these ducts caused by things like gallstones, tumors, or scarring. Patients are sedated for the procedure and monitored afterwards until the effects wear off. Possible side effects include bloating, gas, and stool changes that typically resolve within 24 hours. The results are then discussed with the patient and next steps determined.
Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2019;17:xvii
AGA Patient Education Section
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a During the Endoscopic Retrograde
procedure that uses endoscopy, x-ray, and dye to view the biliary tract and pancreatic ducts. Endoscopic refers to a tool Cholangiopancreatography called an endoscope; retrograde refers to the direction (back- You will be given medicine to block pain and make you relaxed and ward) the endoscope injects a liquid for x-rays; cholangio refers sleepy, so you do not feel much during the procedure. You may feel to the bile duct system; and pancreatography refers to the full during the test, because air may be put in to help move the pancreas. The process of taking these x-rays is known as scope. A numbing spray may be put on the back of your throat to cholangiopancreatography. ease discomfort, and a bite block may be placed within your mouth to protect your teeth and the endoscope. Once you are fully What Is Endoscopic Retrograde relaxed, the endoscope will be passed through your mouth into Cholangiopancreatography for? your esophagus, then into your stomach and duodenum, and then possibly into the pancreatic or common bile duct. ERCP can help find and possibly treat some health issues found in the bile duct system and pancreas and possibly help you avoid surgery. During the procedure, tools can be passed After the Endoscopic Retrograde through to relieve a blockage or narrowing in the biliary/ Cholangiopancreatography pancreatic duct caused by stones, tumors, or scarring. This can also help relieve jaundice caused by blocked bile ducts. ERCP You will be cared for in a recovery room until the medicine can find the cause of the pancreatitis or inflammation and help wears off and you are more alert. You will need to take it easy for prevent future attacks. the rest of the day and arrange for a family member or friend to listen to the discharge instructions and take you home. You may Before the Endoscopic Retrograde feel some minor issues such as bloating, and you may pass a lot Cholangiopancreatography of gas right after the test. You may also have brief changes in your stool. These should go away in less than 24 hours. Your Follow the instructions your doctor’s office gives you to pre- doctor or nurse will review the ERCP results with you and give pare for the ERCP. General instructions may include listing all you any other details you may need, such as next steps. your medicines (prescription and over-the-counter) and any allergies, telling your doctor if you have any implanted electromedical devices, as well as if you have had surgeries For more information about endoscopic retrograde cholangio- on your stomach or bowel, swallowing problems, or other pancreatography, talk to your gastroenterologist and visit https:// gastrointestinal problems. You may also be told not to eat or www.gastro.org/practice-guidance/gi-patient-center/topic/ drink for at least 6 hours before this test. endoscopic-retrograde-cholangiopancreatography-ercp.