ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography)

ERCP is a procedure used to identify stones, tumors, or narrowing in the bile ducts.

This procedure is done with sedation or general anesthesia.  We insert a special flexible tube (endoscope) through the mouth and into the duodenum (the portion of the small intestine closest to the stomach). Then, we pass a catheter through the endoscope and thread it into the pancreatic or biliary duct to inject radiopaque dye so that x-rays can reveal any abnormalities.

Using special instruments through the specialized endoscope, we can remove gallstones, enlarge narrow segments (strictures) with a stent, and take tissue samples.