Endoscopic Examination and Treatment of the Bile Duct and Pancreas
ENDOSCOPIC RETROGRADE CHOLANGIOPANCREATOGRAPHY
(E.R.C.P.)
This procedure uses an endoscope inserted through the mouth, passing through the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine to the opening of the bile duct in the small intestine, where a contrast dye is injected and X-ray images are taken to
- Examine for abnormalities in the bile duct and pancreas
- Treat obstruction of the bile duct or pancreatic duct by placing a drainage tube
In cases where there are stones in the bile duct, they can be removed by snaring or crushing. If stones are present both in the gallbladder and bile duct, after endoscopic removal of stones from the bile duct, surgery to remove the gallbladder is necessary.
Diseases or Conditions Requiring Examination and Treatment
- Jaundice
- Bile duct stones
- Obstruction of the bile duct or pancreatic duct
- Tumors of the bile duct or pancreas
- Pancreatitis caused by bile duct stones
- For diagnosis before surgical treatment
