Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangipancreatography (ERCP)
ERCP is a procedure used to examine the biliary tree (the gallbladder, bile and pancreatic ducts). ERCP combines X-ray and endoscopy, allowing your physician to obtain high-quality images of the anatomy. Your doctor may use this procedure to identify any strictures (narrowing) in your bile and pancreatic ducts, to biopsy abnormalities, to remove gallstones and to place a stent (plastic or metal).
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How should I prepare for ERCP?
Before your ERCP:
• You may not eat anything for six to eight hours before your procedure. This ensures that your gastrointestinal tract does not have any food products that may interfere with the images.
• If you take blood thinners you may need to stop these prior to your procedure and this should be discussed with your doctor
What should I expect?
On the day of the procedure, arrive at the endoscopy suite approximately one to two hours before your procedure. A responsible adult should accompany you in order to take you home. During the procedure:
Before your ERCP:
• You may not eat anything for six to eight hours before your procedure. This ensures that your gastrointestinal tract does not have any food products that may interfere with the images.
• If you take blood thinners you may need to stop these prior to your procedure and this should be discussed with your doctor
What should I expect?
On the day of the procedure, arrive at the endoscopy suite approximately one to two hours before your procedure. A responsible adult should accompany you in order to take you home. During the procedure:
- An intravenous line will be placed to administer fluids and a sedative.
- A special endoscope called a duodenoscope is passed into your mouth, until it reaches your duodenum (part of the small intestine).
- A catheter is passed through the duodenoscope to access your biliary and/or pancreatic ducts.
- X-ray images are taken to highlights any abnormalities, such as stones, tumors or strictures.
© Dr Payal Saxena 2015
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