ERCP, or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, combines endoscopy with live X-ray imaging to examine and treat the bile ducts and the pancreatic duct. These ducts carry bile and digestive juices into the small intestine. When they become blocked by stones, narrowing or growths, the result can be jaundice, pain, fever and infection. ERCP is used mainly to treat these problems rather than only to look at them.

Patients seeking ERCP in Mumbai at Apex are first evaluated with blood tests and imaging such as ultrasound, CT or MRCP. The aim is to use ERCP when treatment is likely to be needed, since the procedure carries more risk than routine endoscopy. It is done under sedation or anaesthesia, and the patient must fast beforehand.
The endoscope is guided through the mouth into the duodenum, and a fine tube is placed into the opening of the bile duct. A contrast dye is injected so the ducts show up on X-ray. Depending on what is seen, the doctor can remove stones, widen a narrowed segment, take samples or place a stent to keep the duct open. Patients are observed for several hours afterwards, and sometimes overnight, before going home.

How the Procedure Can Help

ERCP can clear blocked bile ducts, relieve jaundice and treat bile duct infection without open surgery. Drainage is often restored in a single session, and recovery is usually shorter than after an operation.

Risks and Considerations

Complications can include inflammation of the pancreas, bleeding, infection, a tear in the digestive wall and reactions to sedation. Pancreatitis is the most common of these. Abdominal pain, fever, vomiting or black stools after the procedure should be reported at once. The doctor explains these risks and reviews medicines and allergies before consent is taken.