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ERCP Normal Procedure in Bhubaneswar

ERCP Normal

ERCP Normal Procedure in Bhubaneswar

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a specialised procedure to diagnose and treat problems affecting the biliary and pancreatic systems. Indications for ERCP include diagnosing the cause of jaundice and abdominal pain and also identifying blockages in the bile or pancreatic ducts detected through imaging tests. Additionally, ERCP can be used therapeutically to remove obstruction within the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts.

During the ERCP procedure, a flexible endoscope with an attached camera is passed through your mouth into the food pipe, stomach, and the proximal part of the small intestine. This allows the direct visualisation of structures. The procedure is minimally invasive and is generally considered safe.

ERCP is typically performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to go home on the same day. Post-procedure, patients may experience temporary side effects such as a bloated stomach, a sore throat, and nausea after the procedure. Most patients tolerate the procedure well and benefit from both diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. However, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions have a higher risk of complications. Our staff at Manipal Hospitals, Bhubaneswar, is well-trained in enhancing treatment outcomes and reducing complications by using advanced technologies and facilities.

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FAQ's

The ERCP procedure has several uses, some of which are:

  • Diagnosis: The procedure helps diagnose problems in the pancreas, gallbladder, liver, and common bile ducts.

  • Stone Removal: Helps remove gallstones obstructing the common bile duct.

  • Stent Placement: Stents can be placed in a narrow or obstructed pancreatic or bile duct.

  • Biliary Endoscopic Sphincterotomy: A small opening is created in the common bile duct or pancreatic duct to help drain bile juices and small gall stones.

  • Stent Removal: ERCP procedures can be performed to remove previously placed stents.

ERCP is a procedure that helps diagnose several conditions affecting the bile ducts. Some of them are:

  • The most common is to remove gallstones in the bile duct

  • Unblock the ducts that are clogged due to a tumour in the bile ducts or pancreas

  • Treat leaks in the bile or pancreatic ducts

  • Confirming the diagnosis of cancer of the pancreas or the bile duct so that the treatment can be planned

  • Management of jaundice caused by obstruction of the bile ducts

A few days before, you will have to undergo blood tests to check your blood clotting levels and liver function. You are advised to stop eating or drinking 6 to 8 hours before the procedure. Inform your doctor about any medication you may be taking or allergies. This is to ensure any complications do not arise during the procedure.

A gastroenterologist performs ERCP using an endoscope. The endoscope has a camera and light attached to its tip. The test is performed when the patient is under the influence of anaesthesia. An endoscope is passed through the patient’s mouth, oesophagus, and stomach into the duodenum, where the bile duct enters. With the help of the endoscope, the necessary diagnostic and therapeutic procedures are performed.

The duration of the procedure itself will be around 30 to 60 minutes. Since you will be receiving anaesthesia, the total duration of the procedure may be around 1 to 2 hours.

You will be taken to the recovery room soon after the procedure and monitored until your sedation wears off. You may not be able to drink or eat anything for four hours after the procedure. Necessary pain medications will be prescribed for you to manage pain. After ERCP, you may experience congestion, which will get better with time.

The ERCP procedure identifies blockages or discrepancies in fluids flowing from the bile and pancreatic ducts. A normal ERCP indicates no significant blockage or abnormality within the bile and pancreatic ducts. Since the procedure helps visualise the inside of these ducts, a normal ERCP rules out the presence of gallstones, tumours, or scar tissue that might be blocking the ducts.

As an alternative to ERCP, imaging scans such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT can diagnose problems within the bile or pancreatic duct and help with an accurate diagnosis. However, you must remember that treatment cannot be provided with these imaging modalities.

The procedure allows accurate diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the bile duct and pancreas. Some of these conditions can be potentially life-threatening and can be effectively treated with ERCP.

Although ERCP is considered safe, some patients do develop complications before or after the ERCP. Some of these are:

  • Bleeding, which may require a blood transfusion

  • Pancreatitis 

  • Perforation in the gastrointestinal tract, which may require surgery

  • Infection within the bile ducts

  • Allergic reactions to medications

Some of these complications may have to be treated in the hospital.

Acute pancreatitis is a common complication following the ERCP procedure. It happens due to the elevation of pancreatic enzymes by using a guide wire for cannulation, X-ray contrast dye, and the placement of temporary stents.

In cases where small gallstones or sludge block the common bile duct and cause some pain, an ERCP procedure is performed before Cholecystectomy. It helps clear the gallstones and sludge from the common bile duct to prevent recurrent pain and jaundice after Cholecystectomy.

You should call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Fever or chills
  • Vomiting 
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Bleeding

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