ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography)

ERCP, short for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, is a combined endoscopic and X-ray procedure used to examine and treat the bile ducts and the pancreatic duct without open surgery. A thin, flexible endoscope is passed through the mouth, down the food pipe and stomach, and into the first part of the small intestine (the duodenum), where the bile and pancreatic ducts open. A fine tube is then guided into these ducts, contrast dye is injected, and X-ray images show any stones, narrowings or blockages. In the same session the team can treat what it finds, for example removing a stone stuck in the bile duct, placing a small stent to keep a blocked duct open, or widening the muscle at the duct opening. Because everything is done through the body's natural openings, there are no external cuts, and most people go home the same day or after one night. It is usually carried out in advanced endoscopy units by teams experienced in these techniques.