Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, or ERCP, is a procedure to diagnose and treat problems in the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. It combines X-ray and the use of an endoscope—a long, flexible, lighted tube.
Is ERCP a major surgery?
Benefits. An ERCP is performed primarily to correct a problem in the bile ducts or pancreas. This means the test enables specific treatment. If a gallstone is found during the exam, it can often be removed, eliminating the need for major surgery.
Is an ERCP painful?
ERCP is performed in a room that contains X-ray equipment. You will lie on a special table during the examination, generally on your left side or stomach. Although many people worry about discomfort from the endoscopy, most people tolerate it well and feel fine afterwards.
How long does it take to recover from ERCP?
It should take between a few hours to a few days to heal after an ERCP. Generally, you should feel ready to resume your regular diet, level of activity, and bowel movements within a few days after an uncomplicated procedure.
Are you awake for ERCP?
ERCP is usually an outpatient procedure, which means you go home the same day. The procedure can take one to two hours. You’ll receive IV anesthesia (medicine to calm you). You’ll be awake for the procedure, but you probably won’t remember any of it.
Can ERCP remove gallstones?
Endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP) is a procedure that can be used to remove gallstones from the bile duct. The gallbladder isn’t removed during this procedure, so any stones in the gallbladder will remain unless they’re removed using other surgical techniques.
What happens after ERCP procedure?
After ERCP, you can expect the following:
- You will most often stay at the hospital or outpatient center for 1 to 2 hours after the procedure so the sedation or anesthesia can wear off.
- You may have bloating or nausea for a short time after the procedure.
- You may have a sore throat for 1 to 2 days.
Is ERCP done under anesthesia?
ERCP is an uncomfortable procedure requiring adequate sedation or general anesthesia. The required level of sedation during these procedures is often deep. The patient cooperation is an imperative factor for the success of the procedure especially, to avoid intra-operative complications such as duodenal perforations.
Which is better MRCP or ERCP?
A major feature of MRCP is that it is not a therapeutic procedure, while in contrast ERCP is used for both diagnosis and treatment. MRCP also does not have the small but definite morbidity and mortality associated with ERCP.
What are the side effects of a ERCP?
ERCP Side Effects
- Severe, worsening abdominal pain.
- A distended, firm abdomen.
- Fever or chills.
- Vomiting, especially vomiting blood.
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing.
- Severe sore throat.
What diseases can be detected by an endoscopy?
Upper GI endoscopy can be used to identify many different diseases:
- gastroesophageal reflux disease.
- ulcers.
- cancer link.
- inflammation, or swelling.
- precancerous abnormalities such as Barrett’s esophagus.
- celiac disease.
- strictures or narrowing of the esophagus.
- blockages.
Can I eat after an ERCP?
Since the pancreas plays a role in digestion, eating after an ERCP may contribute to complications such as pancreatitis. The recommendation time for a clear liquid diet varies. Some physicians recommend a clear liquid diet for 24 hours after the procedure. However, some physicians recommend it for 12 hours or less.
How long does it take for jaundice to clear after ERCP?
Any symptoms of jaundice usually improve in the first couple of days. It may take around two to three weeks for your jaundice to go completely and for you to feel better.