An endoscopic and fluoroscopic technique to diagnose and treat biliary and pancreatic duct disorders.
Why it’s done
• Jaundice from bile-duct stones or strictures
• Cholangitis, pancreatic duct leaks or strictures
Preparation
• Fast 8 hours
• Review and adjust blood thinners per protocol
Procedure
• Sedation or anesthesia; endoscope reaches duodenum
• Contrast injected into ducts; interventions (stone extraction, stent placement) performed
Afterwards
• Observe for 4–6 hours for pain or fever
• Clear liquids first, advance diet gradually
Risks
• Post-ERCP pancreatitis (5–10%)
• Bleeding (2–5%)
• Perforation (<1%)
