What Is Endoscopic Retrograde CHOLANGIO PANCREATOGRAPHY?
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is an endoscopy procedure used to diagnose and treat diseases of the bile ducts and pancreas. It involves inserting a flexible tube called an endoscope through the mouth or nose into the stomach or duodenum.
ERCP is a diagnostic test that allows doctors to view the inside of the digestive tract using X-rays. The procedure is performed in order to determine whether there is any blockage in the bile ducts or pancreatic ducts.
The doctor then guides the tube through the digestive tract until it reaches the area where the problem is located. Once at the site, the doctor inserts special tools through the endoscope to examine the inside of the organ. ERCP may also be performed to remove stones from the common bile duct or gallbladder.
If the doctor finds something abnormal during the examination, he or she will perform other tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests may include blood work, ultrasound scans, CT scans, MRI scans, or biopsies.
The doctor then guides the endoscope through the digestive tract until it reaches the area where the problem is occurring. Once at the correct location, the doctor inserts special tools through the endoscope to examine the inside of the organ. ERCP allows doctors to view the inside of the organs using X-rays and other imaging techniques. This helps them determine whether the patient has gallstones, pancreatic cancer, or other problems. ERCP also allows doctors to remove stones from the bile ducts or perform surgery to repair damaged tissue.
ERCP is usually performed as part of a diagnostic test known as a “cholangiogram.” A cholangiogram is a series of images taken while the doctor performs ERCP. Doctors use these images to help identify any abnormalities in the bile ducts. They also use them to guide the placement of tubes that drain fluids from the bile duct.
The doctor then guides the endoscope through the digestive tract until it reaches the area where the problem is occurring. Once at the correct location, the doctor inserts a tiny camera attached to the endoscope into the patient's body. This allows him/her to see inside the organs and tissues. The doctor may also insert a small tool called a catheter into the organ to remove fluid or perform other procedures. ERCP is usually performed as part of a diagnostic workup for gallbladder disease, pancreatic problems, or liver disease.
If there is no abnormality found during the exam, doctors will often recommend further testing with another type of imaging technique called magnetic resonance cholangiopancretography (MRCP). MRCP uses magnets instead of X-rays to produce detailed pictures of the biliary system.