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ERCP

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Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a medical procedure used to evaluate, diagnose, and treat abnormalities of the bile duct and pancreas. It is particularly effective for addressing issues such as blockages in the bile ducts caused by stones, tumors, or scar tissue, as well as narrowing of the bile ducts due to other conditions. ERCP is also used to manage pancreatic duct obstructions, especially in cases where bile duct stones block the common opening of the bile and pancreatic ducts, leading to pancreatitis.

Benefits of ERCP
  1. Accurate Diagnosis
    ERCP provides clear images of the bile and pancreatic ducts, enabling precise diagnosis. It also allows doctors to collect tissue samples (biopsy) to confirm the presence of tumors or cancer.
  2. Simultaneous Treatment
    In addition to diagnosis, ERCP can treat identified issues immediately, such as:
    • Removing stones from the bile duct
    • Inserting stents to open narrowed bile or pancreatic ducts
    • Removing scar tissue or obstructions
  • Blockages in the bile ducts caused by stones, tumors, or scar tissue
  • Narrowing of the bile ducts due to inflammation or compression by tumors
  • Pancreatic duct obstructions, often caused by stones or tumors
  • Pancreatitis resulting from bile duct stones blocking the common duct opening
  1. Preparation Before the Procedure
    • Fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure.
    • Discuss your medications with your doctor, especially blood thinners.
    • Inform your doctor of any known allergies, particularly to medications used during the procedure.
  2. During the Procedure
    • You will receive a sedative or local anesthetic to help you relax.
    • The doctor inserts a thin, flexible endoscope through your mouth, passing through the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine.
    • A contrast dye is injected to provide clear imaging of the bile and pancreatic ducts.
  3. Treatment
    • If stones are detected, special tools can be used to remove them.
    • If narrowing or blockage is found, a stent can be placed to allow better drainage.
  • Simultaneous diagnosis and treatment
  • Shorter recovery time compared to major surgery
  • Minimizes the need for invasive surgery
  • Reduces the risk of complications such as bile duct or pancreatic infections
  • Sore throat or throat irritation after the procedure
  • Mild bloating or abdominal discomfort
  • Small risks of infection, pancreatitis, or perforation of the bile or pancreatic ducts
  • Rest and avoid strenuous activities on the first day.
  • Eat soft foods as advised by your doctor.
  • Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms such as high fever, intense abdominal pain, or vomiting.
ERCP is a highly effective diagnostic and therapeutic procedure, but complications can occur. At Bumrungrad, we maintain a 100% success rate, with a complication rate of just 3.54%, outperforming American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, ASGE benchmark of <4%.
Last modify: December 27, 2024

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