ercp

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a technique that combines the use of endoscopy and x ray to diagnose and treat problems of the pancreaticor biliaryductal systems. Through the endoscope, the gastroenterologist sees the inside of the stomach and duodenum, and inject a dye into the ducts in the biliary tree and pancreas which can be seen on fluoroscopy (x ray) machine.

ERCP is used primarily to diagnose and treat conditions of the bile ducts and main pancreatic duct, including gallstones, inflammatory strictures, leaks (from trauma and surgery).

Indications:

Sphincterotomy of the sphincter of Oddi; extraction of gallstones; insertion of a stent through the major duodenal papilla and ampulla of Vater into the common bile duct and/or the pancreatic duct; dilation of bile duct strictures (primary sclerosing cholangitis, anastomotic strictures after liver transplantation).