What is Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)?, Procedure & More
What is Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
ERCP, or Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography, is a medical procedure that helps doctors examine and treat problems in the bile ducts and pancreas.
A thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera at the end is inserted through your mouth, down the esophagus, into the stomach, and finally into the small intestine. This camera allows doctors to see inside and take pictures.
If a blockage or stone is found in your bile ducts, the doctor can use special tools to remove it or place a stent to keep things flowing smoothly. This procedure is essential for diagnosing and treating problems in your bile ducts and pancreas.
Why Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography is Done?
- Diagnosis: ERCP helps doctors figure out the cause of problems like jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss.
- Treatment: ERCP can be used to remove gallstones or other obstructions in the bile ducts. It can also treat conditions like chronic pancreatitis by opening narrowed ducts.
- Biopsy: If there’s a suspicious-looking area, the doctor can use tiny tools through the endoscope to take a tissue sample (biopsy) for testing.
The Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Procedure
ERCP is usually done in a hospital or specialized clinic. The doctor gives you some medicine, so you won’t feel a thing during the procedure. It typically takes around 30 to 60 minutes.
After ERCP, you might feel weak due to the medication, so it’s essential to have someone take you home. You might have a sore throat for a day or two, but this discomfort is usually mild.
ERCP is a crucial procedure that combines an endoscope and X-rays to diagnose and treat problems in your bile ducts and pancreas. X-ray helps the doctor see any blockages, stones, or other issues clearly.
It helps doctors get to the root of issues in a less invasive way than traditional surgery, making it a valuable tool in modern medicine.
Dr. Kailash Mishra
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Prime Gastro Liver Clinic
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