ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography)

What Is ERCP?

ERCP is a minimally invasive procedure that combines endoscopic and X-ray (fluoroscopic) imaging to diagnose and treat abnormalities in the:

• Bile Ducts
• Pancreatic Duct
• Gallbladder

During ERCP, a thin, flexible endoscope is gently guided down the esophagus and stomach into the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). A small catheter is then inserted into the duct opening (papilla) so that a special contrast dye can be injected and X-ray images taken.

Conditions Addressed

• Gallstones lodged in the common bile duct
• Biliary Strictures or narrowing of the bile ducts
• Pancreatic Duct Stones or strictures
• Pancreatic Cancer or other tumors impacting the bile duct
• Leaks or Injuries in the ducts post-surgery or due to chronic pancreatitis

How ERCP Helps

1. Accurate Diagnosis
   ERCP’s imaging allows our specialists to precisely locate any blockages, stones, or abnormal growths that may be causing persistent symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain, or changes in liver function tests.
2. Therapeutic Interventions
• Stone Removal: Tiny baskets or balloon extractors remove gallstones or pancreatic duct stones.
• Stent Placement: If a duct is narrowed or blocked, small tubes (stents) can be placed to keep it open and restore proper drainage.
• Sphincterotomy: A small incision can be made to enlarge the duct opening, improving the flow of bile or removing stones more easily.

Less Invasive Approach

ERCP often eliminates the need for more invasive surgeries, leading to shorter recovery times, reduced hospital stays, and quicker relief of symptoms.

What to Expect

• Preparation: You will typically fast (no food or drink) for several hours before the procedure. Inform us about any blood thinners or medications you are taking.
• Sedation: We perform ERCP with sedation or anesthesia to help you remain comfortable.
• Procedure Time: The procedure may last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity.
• Recovery: Most patients can return home the same day once the sedation has worn off. We will monitor you briefly in our recovery area to ensure you are stable.

Possible Risks

While ERCP is generally safe under the care of experienced specialists, some potential risks include:

• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Infection (cholangitis or other localized infections)
• Bleeding (especially if a sphincterotomy is performed)
• Perforation (rare but serious tears in the duct or intestinal wall)

Our team at Curative Digestive Disease Center is highly trained to minimize these risks and manage any complications promptly.

Why Choose Curative Digestive Disease Center for ERCP?

• Expertise: Led by Dr. Ahmad Farooq, who trained at Yale and Duke University, our center offers a blend of expert knowledge and innovative care.
• In-House Pathology: Rapid, accurate analysis of samples by our specialized GI pathologist, Dr. Ghulam Ilyas, ensures timely diagnosis.

Patient-Centered Care: From consultation through follow-up, we focus on personalized treatment plans, addressing each patient’s unique symptoms and health goals.

Schedule Your ERCP Consultation

If you’re experiencing symptoms that may require a closer look at your biliary or pancreatic system, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at our Houston locations.