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ERCP Diagnostic Test in Mukundapur

ERCP

ERCP Diagnostic Test in Mukundapur

ERCP, or Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography, is recommended by doctors to examine the bile and pancreatic duct in case of a biliary system issue. This specialised diagnostic technique uses a combination of endoscopy and fluoroscopy to diagnose and treat conditions related to your biliary or pancreatic ductal systems. 

This procedure is done using an endoscope, which is a flexible tube inserted through the mouth into the small intestine. With the use of contrast dyes, the inside of the bile and pancreatic duct are easily visible in X-rays, helping to find any blockages in the ducts such as tumours, gallstones, and scar tissues. The small issues can be treated during the procedure through the endoscope, like the removal of gallstones, taking biopsies, relieving obstructions, and placing stents.

At Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur, we have highly skilled and well-trained gastroenterologists providing effective and accurate diagnosis of bile duct conditions. We employ the latest techniques and cutting-edge facilities to provide accurate results and reduce complications by following stringent protocols. ERCP is widely used nowadays for the management of complex biliary and pancreatic diseases, both diagnostic and therapeutic.

FAQ's

An ERCP test is recommended by doctors to diagnose or treat a condition. The doctor may recommend ERCP in the following cases:

  • Find the cause of unexplained upper abdominal pain or jaundice

  • Get detailed information in cases of pancreatitis, liver, bile duct, or pancreatic cancer

  • Diagnose conditions such as biliary cholangitis or sclerosing cholangitis

  • Diagnose and treat gallstones or blockages in the common bile duct

  • Narrowing caused by scar tissue (biliary structure)

  • Examine for bile duct leaks or other injuries

  • Opening the ducts entry into the bowel (Sphincterotomy)

  • Drain blocked areas

The doctor may recommend ERCP for other reasons as well, as per your specific condition.

The ERCP procedure is generally performed by a gastroenterologist who is specialised in diagnosing and treating digestive system diseases. They are also trained in performing endoscopies, which is a better alternative to other minor or major GI surgeries.

  • You will not be allowed to eat or drink a night or at least 8 hours before the test or as instructed by your doctor. Also, avoid smoking and chewing gum.

  • Make sure to remove all your jewellery before the test so that it does not interfere with the X-rays.

  • Inform your doctor before the test about your medical conditions and the medications you are taking. You might need to stop taking certain medications, like blood thinners, before the test.

  • Also, inform them about any previous reactions or allergies to contrast dye or anaesthesia.

  • Do arrange for someone to drive you home after the test, as the anaesthesia will take about 24 hours to wear off.

  • The procedure is conducted as an outpatient, and it takes about one to two hours. 

  • You will need to put on a hospital gown, and an IV line will be inserted to administer sedation or anaesthesia.

  • You will be positioned on your left side or your belly.

  • Your throat may be numbed with a liquid anaesthetic or numbing medicine to reduce discomfort.

  • The doctor will insert an endoscope through your mouth and guide it down your oesophagus and stomach to the duodenum (top of your small intestine).

  • The images will be projected onto a screen.

  • The images will help in locating the opening to the bile and pancreatic ducts inside your duodenum.

  • A smaller tube is then inserted through the endoscope into this opening, and contrast dye is injected into the ducts through this smaller catheter.

  • Fluoroscopy is used to take real-time video X-rays as the dye travels through the ducts. It involves brief bursts of X-ray beams and is considered safe.

  • The images are then checked to assess problems like obstructions, swelling, or leaks.

  • If any issues are found, the doctor may perform the procedure right there, such as 

 

  • Breaking up and removing gallstones

  • Removing tumours or taking tissue samples for biopsy

  • Dilating or stretching narrowed ducts to widen them

  • Placing a stent inside a duct to keep it open

  • Repairing a leak or injury in your ducts

  • Performing a Sphincterotomy

  • After the procedure, you will be taken to the recovery room and monitored until the effects of the anaesthesia wear off.

  • You will be discharged once you are awake and all looks well.

  • You will be asked not to eat or drink anything until your gag reflex returns.

  • You might have mild discomfort for a day or two, such as a sore throat and difficulty swallowing, bloated stomach or gas pain, and nausea. But these are normal. 

  • You may be given a rectal suppository to decrease the risk of pancreatitis

  • You can continue your normal activities and diet the next day unless specified by your doctor.

The possibility of associated risks will depend on the therapeutic procedure performed and your preexisting conditions. The possible risks include:

  • Allergic reaction to the contrast dye
  • Bleeding
  • Adverse reaction to the sedative
  • Injury to the GI tract
  • Infection in the biliary system
  • Injury to the bile ducts
  • Tear in the lining of the upper section of the small intestine, stomach, or oesophagus
  • Collection of bile outside the biliary system
  • Irritation and inflammation of the pancreas

Our surgeon will explain to you all the risks before the procedure and take all precautions to minimise these risks.

You should immediately call the doctor if you experience any of these symptoms after the ERCP test. These are:

  • Fever or chills
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Vomiting or other signs of infection
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Throat or chest pain that worsens
  • Black, tarry, or bloody stools
  • Redness, bleeding, or swelling at the insertion site

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