ERCP, or Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography, is an advanced endoscopic procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the bile ducts, gallbladder, and pancreas.

It is performed through the mouth using a flexible endoscope, allowing the doctor to reach the opening of the bile and pancreatic ducts and perform the required therapeutic intervention without traditional surgery.

When Is ERCP Needed?

ERCP may be recommended for patients with bile duct obstruction caused by:

• Bile duct stones.
• Narrowing or strictures of the bile ducts.
• Tumors affecting the bile duct or pancreas.

Therapeutic Procedures Performed During ERCP

ERCP can be used to perform several advanced therapeutic procedures, including:

• Fragmentation and removal of bile duct stones.
• Placement of plastic or metal stents.
• Dilation of narrowed bile ducts.

Why Is ERCP Important?

ERCP is an effective minimally invasive procedure that helps relieve bile duct obstruction, improve bile drainage, and treat several biliary and pancreatic conditions without the need for open surgery in many cases.