Endoscopic Retrograde Colangiopancreaticography (ERCP)
Introduction
It is a nonsurgical procedure to examine diagnose and treat problems in the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas
Features
ERCP is a type of endoscopy that examines the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. It uses a long flexible tube with a light and camera on one end.
Indications and procedures
Doctors perform ERCP when the bile or pancreatic ducts have become narrowed or blocked because of
- Gallstones in the gallbladder
- Infection
- Acute pancreatitis
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Advantages
An ERCP is performed primarily to correct a problem in the bile ducts or pancreas. If a gallstone is found during the exam, it can often be removed, eliminating the need for major surgery. If a blockage in the bile duct causes yellow jaundice or pain, it can be relieved by sphincterotomy or stent placement.