Procedure guide · Gastroenterology
ERCP is an endoscopic procedure that examines and treats problems in the bile ducts and the pancreatic duct. MedlinePlus explains that it is used to evaluate and treat stones, tumours and narrowed areas in these ducts. It is usually advised after scans have already shown a likely problem. So the reports you send are central to planning.
What is ERCP?
The bile ducts carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine. The pancreatic duct carries fluid from the pancreas. In ERCP a flexible endoscope is passed through the mouth, stomach and into the first part of the small intestine, where these ducts open. MedlinePlus describes a thin catheter passed through the scope into the ducts. Dye is injected so that X-rays show stones, tumours or narrowing. Small instruments can then be passed through the scope to treat what is found.
According to MedlinePlus, sedation is given through a drip. You lie on your stomach or left side with a mouth guard in place.
Who may be suitable for ERCP?
MedlinePlus says ERCP is mainly used for problems causing abdominal pain, often in the upper right or middle abdomen, and jaundice. Uses include removing or crushing gallstones in the ducts and stretching narrowed segments. They also include opening the duct entry into the bowel, draining blocked areas and taking tissue samples. It notes that imaging such as ultrasound, CT or MRI is generally done first. A gastroenterologist decides whether ERCP is needed or whether another test or treatment is more appropriate.
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What reports does a specialist usually ask for?
- Ultrasound, CT or MRI reports, including MRCP if done, with the original image files
- Recent liver function tests and a full blood count
- Clotting tests if your doctor has done them
- Notes from any earlier ERCP, including whether a stent was placed and when
- A list of medicines, especially blood thinners
- Any allergy to iodine or past reaction to X-ray dye
If a stent was placed during an earlier ERCP, bring its details. Stents often need review or replacement, and the specialist will want to know the type and date.
How should you plan the trip?
- Review of your scans and blood tests before travel
- Consultation and any repeat tests in India
- ERCP under sedation, after fasting as instructed
- Observation afterwards, with the team deciding when you can leave
- Follow-up results, including any tissue sample reports
- Home: a plan for stent review or further treatment if needed
MedlinePlus advises that someone must take you home after ERCP. An attendant is helpful. ERCP is sometimes one step in a wider plan, for example gallbladder removal later. Ask the team to explain the full sequence before you book.
What should you ask the hospital?
- What do you expect to find and treat during my ERCP?
- Will you place a stent and, if so, when must it be removed or replaced?
- How do you manage the risk of pancreatitis after ERCP?
- When will tissue sample results be ready if a biopsy is taken?
- Will I need further treatment such as gallbladder surgery afterwards?
- When is it safe for me to fly home?
IndiaMedica helps you send reports and compare written plans. The treating gastroenterologist decides what is suitable.
Questions people ask
What are the risks of ERCP?
MedlinePlus lists reactions to the anaesthesia, dye or medicines, bleeding and a hole in the bowel. It also lists pancreatitis, which it describes as potentially very serious. Your specialist should explain your own level of risk before you sign the consent form.
Do I need to fast before ERCP?
Yes. MedlinePlus says not to eat or drink for a set period before the procedure. The hospital will give its own fasting instructions. Tell the team about all your medicines, including blood thinners, and any allergy to iodine or X-ray dye.
Is ERCP the same as an MRCP scan?
No. MRCP is an MRI scan of the bile and pancreatic ducts and does not involve an endoscope. ERCP uses an endoscope and X-ray dye and can treat problems as well as show them. MedlinePlus notes that scans such as MRI are generally done before ERCP.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.