What is ERCP?
ERCP stands for Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography. It’s a special test doctors use to look at and treat problems in your bile ducts, gallbladder, and pancreas. These are parts of your digestive system that help digest food and remove waste from your body.
Why is it Done?
ERCP is used when your doctor suspects a problem like:
- Gallstones blocking your bile ducts
- Yellowing of the skin (jaundice)
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
- Tumors or narrowing in the bile duct or pancreatic ducts
How is it Done?
- You’ll be given medicine to make you sleepy and comfortable.
- A flexible tube with a camera on the end (called an endoscope) is gently passed through your mouth, down into your stomach, and into the small intestine.
- A special dye is injected into the bile duct/ pancreatic duct, and X-rays are taken to see if there are any blockages or issues.
- In most cases, the doctor will do treatments right then and there, like removing a bile duct stone, opening a blocked duct, or placing a small tube (stent) to keep a duct open.
Is it Painful?
No, you’ll be sedated, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure.
How Long Does it Take?
Usually about 30 minutes to an hour. You might stay at the hospital for a few hours after for observation.
What are the Risks?
ERCP is generally safe, but like any procedure, there are some risks, such as:
- Pancreatitis (irritation of the pancreas)- (upto 5-10% chance)
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Reaction to the sedation
Your doctor will discuss these with you before the test.
What Happens After ERCP?
- You might feel a little bloated or have a sore throat for a short time.
- You’ll need someone to take you home, as you may still feel sleepy.
- Most people recover quickly and can take liquid/ semisolid diet on same day.
Summary:
ERCP is a helpful test that lets doctors look into your bile duct and pancreatic systems and even treat problems without needing surgery. It's mostly safe and is done with sedation, so you stay relaxed and pain-free.
