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.
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.
During an ERCP, the doctor uses a special narrow, flexible tube (endoscope) that has a video camera. While the child is asleep, the tube is placed through the child's mouth into the upper digestive system. Contrast dye with X-rays allow the doctor to see stones, abnormal narrowing or blockages in the ducts.
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.
ERCP is performed in a room that contains X-ray equipment. You will lie on a special table, and you may be positioned on your left side, prone (facing down), or supine (facing up). Although many people worry about discomfort from the endoscopy, most people tolerate it well and feel fine afterwards.
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.
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).