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ERCP is the abbreviation for Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio Pancreatography, which is a procedure that examines the GI tract and surrounding organs to diagnose blockages, remove stones, and to take biopsy of bile ducts and pancreatic tumors.

Gastroenterologists Chicago experts explain that is an effective and useful procedure that combines GI endoscopy and X-rays for evaluating and treating a number of different problems. The stomach, intestine, the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder together make up the GI tract. ERCP examines the bile ducts that are connected to the liver and gallbladder and the pancreatic duct that carries out waste from the pancreas.

How Does ERCP Work?

After the patient receives a local anesthetic in the back of the throat, an intravenous needle is inserted into a vein in the arm to sedate the patient. Then the doctor inserts an endoscope that has a small camera attached down the esophagus and stomach to reach the duodenum.  By inserting air into the endoscope the doctor inflate the stomach and duodenum in order to better view the area and located the duodenal papilla to insert a dye that can be seen on x rays.

Gastroenterology Chicago doctors at Gastroenterology Consultants of the North Shore practice clarify that this procedure should only be conducted by highly trained specialists.

This procedure involves a few risks, the major risk being developing pancreatitis. Approximately 5% of ERCP procedures result in pancreatitis. Some patients may have allergies to the dye used during the procedures. In addition, according to ERCP gastro Chicago experts, the air used during ERCP may cause intestinal gas and bowle habit changes.  There are non-invasive alternatives available to this diagnostic technique, which include cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) and endoscopic ultrasound.

To learn more about digestive and liver disease diagnostics and treatments read Can Skin Problems Be a Sign of Liver Disease?