Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that uses a combination of endoscopy and fluoroscopy (an imaging technique) to examine and treat conditions of the biliary system, which includes the gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreatic duct.

Detailed diagram of an endoscopic retrograde cholangio pancreatography (ERCP) CRUK 001

Procedure

• During an ERCP, an endoscope – a flexible tube with a light and camera at the end – is passed through the patient's mouth and down through the stomach to reach the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine. There, the opening to the bile and pancreatic ducts (known as the ampulla of Vater) is located.
• A contrast dye is then injected into the bile and pancreatic ducts through a small tube (cannula) that is passed through the endoscope. This dye allows the ducts to be clearly seen on X-rays, enabling the diagnosis of problems such as blockages or narrowing of the ducts, gallstones, tumors, or cysts.
• In addition to diagnosis, ERCP can also be used for treatment. Instruments can be passed through the endoscope to remove gallstones, take tissue samples (biopsies), place stents to keep ducts open, or perform other procedures as needed.

Indications

• ERCP is typically used when there is a suspicion of a disease or condition affecting the biliary or pancreatic systems, such as:
• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas.
• Cholangitis: Inflammation of the bile ducts.
• Gallstones: Hardened deposits in the gallbladder.
• Tumors or cancers of the pancreas or bile ducts.
• Obstruction or narrowing of the bile or pancreatic ducts.

Risks and Complications

While ERCP is generally safe, complications can occur, such as pancreatitis, infections, bleeding, or perforation of the stomach or intestine. It's important that patients understand these risks before consenting to the procedure.

See Also

• Endoscopy
• Pancreatitis
• Gallstones
• Cholangitis

References

• "Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)". Mayo Clinic.
• "Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)". Johns Hopkins Medicine.
• "ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography)". American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

External Links

ERCP - MedlinePlus ERCP - American College of Gastroenterology Understanding ERCP - American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

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