It is usually performed by a skilledgastroenterologist(specialist in digestive system disorders).
Illustration by Mira Norian for Verywell Health
ERCP: A Test or Surgery?
An ERCP can be used to make a diagnosis, perform a procedure, and deliver treatment.
Illustration by Mira Norian for Verywell Health
It is minimally invasive as it doesn’t involve an external incision, as opposed to open surgical procedures.
Noninvasive tests might also be used prior to an ERCP to get a better idea of the potential diagnosis.
However, an ERCP can be used to actually see inside the structures of the body.
This can help confirm a diagnosis.
You might meet with your healthcare provider after the procedure to learn how the procedure went.
The results of biopsies will take longer, usually a few days.
Apathologistwill examine the biopsies microscopically to understand more about what is happening with the tissue.
It might be done at an outpatient endoscopy center or a hospital.
The procedure could take a few hours.
Instructions will be given about timing and any need for prep.
After receiving sedation, you will need someone to drive you home if you are discharged.
Sometimes a stay in the hospital will be needed.
This test is done while you are sedated.
In some cases, general anesthetic may be used (you will be asleep through the procedure).
A local anesthetic, either a gargle or a spray, is also used to numb the throat.
Monitoring equipment will be used to watch your vital signs, such as heart rate and breathing.
Teeth will be protected with the use of a mouth guard.
The endoscope has a camera on the end, which will send the image to a video screen.
Contrast dyewill also be used.
Sometimes, you may be asked to change positions for the X-rays.
If there is a need to use a treatment, the endoscope will also be used for that.
Tools are passed through the endoscope.
These tools can be used to deliver a variety of treatments.
Its also important that the local anesthetic has worn off and you are able to eat and drink.
In some cases, you may need to stay overnight in the hospital for observation.
Pain medications may be given because some people may experience pain after the procedure.
Its important to talk aboutpain managementwith healthcare providers before the procedure.
Instructions will be given on how to manage activity and diet over the next few days.
Rest will be advised for the remainder of the day after the procedure.
You may need a few days to get back to a regular diet and activity level.
These symptoms should improve in the hours after the procedure.
There is the potential for complications after an ERCP.
Overcoming Fear and Anxiety About ERCP Procedure
Its natural to feel anxiety or worry before an ERCP.
Talking these concerns over with a healthcare provider can be helpful.
This can include getting more information about particular concerns, such as sedation or the potential for complications.
There are usually solutions available when a provider knows what the barriers are.
Some people are concerned about their gag reflex during the procedure.
The sedation thats given before the procedure will help reduce the gag reflex.
It might also help to discuss ERCP with others who’ve gone through it.
Ask your healthcare provider if they can direct you to another patient or a support group to meet with.
Many healthcare practices and hospitals also can offer the help of a counselor, social worker, or psychologist.
It is invasive, but skilled healthcare providers will help in making the procedure as comfortable as possible.
Working with healthcare providers and communicating about all aspects of the test will help in having the best outcome.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).
doi:10.5812/aapm.95796
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.Understanding ERCP.
2017;11:VC01-VC04.
2021;17:446-450. doi:10.1016/j.explore.2020.07.011.
