ERCP

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a specialized medical procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions of the bile ducts, gallbladder, pancreas, and liver. It combines the use of endoscopy and fluoroscopy to examine and intervene in the biliary and pancreatic ductal systems.

Purpose of ERCP:

ERCP is utilized for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes:

1. Diagnostic Uses:

• Investigate the cause of jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Diagnose pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer
• Identify bile duct or pancreatic duct obstructions
• Detect gallstones in the bile duct
• Assess abnormalities found on imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans

2. Therapeutic Uses:

• Remove bile duct stones (choledocholithiasis)
• Place stents to relieve bile duct or pancreatic duct obstructions
• Perform sphincterotomy (cutting the muscle between the common bile duct and pancreatic duct) to facilitate stone removal or drainage
• Treat bile leaks or strictures (narrowing of the ducts)
• Drain pseudocysts in the pancreas

Advantages of ERCP:

• Combined Diagnostic and Therapeutic Capabilities: ERCP allows for both the identification and immediate treatment of various conditions affecting the bile and pancreatic ducts.
• Minimally Invasive: Compared to surgical alternatives, ERCP is less invasive with a shorter recovery time.
• Effective for Stone Removal and Obstruction Relief: Provides a direct and effective means to remove stones and relieve obstructions in the bile and pancreatic ducts.
• Versatile: Can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including strictures, leaks, and infections.