ERCP
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a procedure that combines upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy and x-rays to treat problems of the bile and pancreatic ducts.
What is ERCP?
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a procedure that combines upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy and x-rays to treat problems of the bile and pancreatic ducts.
Bile ducts are tubes that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and duodenum. Pancreatic ducts are tubes that carry pancreatic juice from the pancreas to the duodenum. Common bile duct and main pancreatic duct join before emptying into the duodenum.
Why is ERCP performed?
ERCP is used to diagnose and treat problems of the bile and pancreatic ducts.
ERCP is performed when bile or pancreatic ducts have become narrowed or blocked because of the following conditions:
Gallstones that form in the gallbladder and become stuck in common bile duct
Infection
Chronic pancreatitis
Trauma or surgical complications in bile or pancreatic ducts
Pancreatic pseudocysts
Tumours or cancers of the bile ducts
Tumours or cancers of the pancreas