This procedure is used to study the drainage tubes, or ducts of the gallbladder, pancreas, and liver. It may be used to identify and relieve obstructions of these ducts. It can also aide in diagnosing diseases of the liver, biliary tree and pancreas. During this procedure a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope is passed through the mouth, esophagus, stomach and the first part of the small bowel. Once the openings to the bile duct and pancreas are identified a plastic tube called a catheter will be passed through the endoscope and into the ducts. A contrast dye is injected into the pancreatic or biliary ducts and x-rays are taken.

To prepare you should have nothing to eat or drink after midnight the night prior to your scheduled procedure. You should make sure you notify your doctor if you have an allergy to iodine-containing drugs, which include contrast material.

Prior to the procedure an intravenous line will be started in order to administer sedation to make you more comfortable. You will lie on your abdomen during the procedure.

ERCP is generally a well-tolerated procedure. Complications can occur, but they are uncommon. Potential complications are pancreatitis (inflammation or infection of the pancreas), infections, bowel perforation, bleeding, and rarely death.

After the procedure, you will be observed until most of the effects of the sedation have worn off. You may experience some gas or bloating due to air introduced during the procedure. You cannot work or drive for the remainder of the day. Therefore, someone needs to take you home and stay with you for several hours after the procedure.

You should contact your physician if you develop abdominal pain, vomiting or fever after the procedure.

Consent forms for ERCP
Understanding ERCP

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