 Health Guide Drug Guide Images ERCPDefinitionEndoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a procedure used to identify stones, tumors, or narrowing in the bile ducts. The procedure is done through an endoscope. Alternative NamesEndoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography; Papillotomy; Endoscopic sphincterotomy How the Test is PerformedAn intravenous (IV) line is placed in your arm. You will lie on your stomach or on your left side for the test. Medicines to relax or sedate you will be given through the IV. Sometimes a spray to numb the throat is also used. A mouth guard will be placed in your mouth to protect your teeth. Dentures must be removed. After the sedative takes effect, the endoscope is inserted through the mouth, and passed through the esophagus (food pipe) and stomach until it reaches the duodenum (the part of the small intestine that is closest to the stomach). A catheter (thin tube) is passed through the endoscope and inserted into the tubes (ducts) that lead to the pancreas and gallbladder. A special dye is injected into these ducts, and x-rays are taken. This helps the doctor see stones, tumors, and any areas that have become narrowed. Special instruments can be placed through the endoscope and into the ducts to
How to Prepare for the TestYou will need to fast at least 4 hours before the test and sign a consent form. Remove all jewelry so that it will not interfere with the x-ray. How the Test Will FeelBecause of the intravenous sedation, you may not feel any discomfort, and may have no memory of the test. There may be some gagging as the tube is passed down the esophagus. As the scope is positioned, there will be some stretching of the stomach and duodenum. Occasionally, stretching of the ducts can be felt. Air, used to inflate the stomach and bowel, can cause some bloating or gas. After the procedure, you may have a sore throat for 3 to 4 days. Some people have a bad reaction to the dye or the drugs used to relax the duodenum, which can cause symptoms like nausea, hives, burning sensation, blurred vision, and urine retention. Why the Test is PerformedThe procedure is used to identify any problems of the pancreas or bile ducts that can cause abdominal pain (usually in the right upper or middle stomach area) and yellowing of the skin and eyes ( jaundice). These include:
ERCP is often performed after gallstones in the common duct are discovered during cholecystectomy. A procedure called endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) can be done at the same time as an ERCP. Normal ResultsThe x-ray will show normal structures for the age of the patient. What Abnormal Results MeanAbnormal results may indicate stones or narrowing of the ducts, presence of tumors, cancer, cirrhosis (severe liver disease), and cysts (abnormal cavity filled with fluid or half-solid substances). Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:
RisksReactions to the anesthesia, dye, or drug used during this procedure may include
Risks related to the procedure include:
Long-term complications include:
ReferencesPasricha PJ. Gastrointestinal endoscopy. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2008:chap 136.
Review Date:
7/6/2009 Reviewed By: Reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. Also reviewed by George F Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program San Diego, California. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
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