ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde CholangioPancreatography)

What Is An ERCP?

An ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde CholangioPancreatography) is a study of the ducts that drain the fluids from the liver, gallbladder and pancreas into the bowel. During an ERCP the doctor inserts a thin flexible tube (endoscope) into your mouth through the esophagus (food tube) and stomach. An x-ray picture, with the use of contrast dyes, are taken of the ducts.

 

Is It Going To Hurt?

Most people have no discomfort. We offer heavy sedation. This means medication is given through a catheter (tube) inserted into your vein. An anesthesiologist will administer the medications. This medication will make you calm, ease your pain, and put you to sleep. You will not remember the procedure.

 

Three Days Before Your Procedure

• STOP all iron, NSAIDs- Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs (Ibuprofen, Motrin, etc), and blood thinners (Coumadin, Plavix, Aggrenox, etc.). Tylenol is ok.
• Make sure that you have a ride and a driver to stay during your visit. An adult will have to drive you home — you should not drive for 12 hours after you receive sedation.

 

The Day Before Your Procedure

You may eat as you normally would however:

NOTHING TO EAT OR DRINK AFTER MIDNIGHT

 

The Day Of Your Procedure

DO NOT EAT OR DRINK ANYTHING UNTIL AFTER YOUR VISIT.

• Please take only blood pressure, breathing, seizure, & thyroid medications this morning, and only with small sips of water.
• Bring your Inhalers (puffers) with you to the procedure.

DIABETICS: DO NOT take your diabetic pills this morning, but please DO test your blood sugar.

Please arrive 5112 West Taft Rd., Suite E. Check with your doctor for the time you should arrive

• Parking for patients is located on the North Medical Center side of our building.
• Drivers need to stay in the waiting area until you are ready to go home.
• You will need to bring photo ID, insurance cards, and list of your medications.
• Please leave all valuables at home

 

How Do I Feel After My ERCP?

• Many people do not remember the procedure and have no discomfort
• Generally, you can eat and drink after your procedure
• You will learn the findings of your upper endoscopy before you leave
• Any biopsies taken will be sent to the lab and results will be given to you in about 14 days