Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography

What is Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)?

What is Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)?

ECRP is the procedure in which an endoscope is inserted down your throat and through the stomach and into the pancreas in order to evaluate the functioning and status of the pancreas. Usually, an X-ray is taken in order to cross-examine the bile and the pancreatic ducts and figure out the problem that might be there in the pancreas.

When is Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) recommended?

There are many reasons as to why Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) might be performed. It is primarily used when there is some kind of problem related to the pancreatic and bile ducts. Other reasons are listed below:
- The formation of gallstones and checking the condition when it gets stuck in your bile duct.
- Acute and Chronic Pancreatitis.
- Surgical complications of the pancreatic ducts.
- Tumor or cancerous formations in the bile and pancreatic ducts.

Preparing for Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

Preparing for an ERCP is quite easy. There are a couple of simple steps that you have to follow before the procedure:
- A brief discussion with your doctor - have a general discussion about the procedure and also ensure that you are aware of the consequences of it.
- Arranging your ride home - try not to drive 24 hours before the procedure.
- No smoking, drinking or chewing gum - eating healthy food and ensuring that you have an adequate sleep is highly recommended.

Understanding Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) results.
The results after the procedure are carried out are given out in a day. In case you have gallstones or some defect with your pancreatic ducts then surgery would be recommended. If not, medication is advised to keep the bile and pancreatic ducts free from any kind of defect.