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Procedure

ERCP

Endoscopic procedure for bile duct and pancreatic conditions.

Overview

ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is a specialised procedure that combines endoscopy with imaging to diagnose and treat problems of the bile ducts and pancreatic duct. It's both diagnostic and therapeutic — we can often treat the problem (like removing a stone) in the same session.

When it’s recommended

  • Bile duct stones causing jaundice or pain
  • Suspected bile duct or pancreatic blockage
  • Recurrent pancreatitis of unclear cause
  • Bile leak after gallbladder surgery
  • Placement of stents in narrowed bile ducts

What to expect

ERCP is more involved than routine endoscopy and takes about 30–90 minutes. You'll be sedated. A scope is passed to the duodenum where the bile and pancreatic ducts open. Dye is injected and X-rays guide the treatment — stones can be removed, narrowed areas opened, or stents placed.

Preparation

No food for 8 hours before the procedure. Specific guidance on blood thinners and diabetes medications. The procedure is done in our endoscopy suite with full monitoring.

Recovery

You'll be monitored for 1–2 hours after the procedure. Some discomfort and mild sore throat are normal. Most patients go home the same day, though some cases require an overnight stay for observation.

This is general information, not a substitute for medical advice. For guidance specific to your case, please consult Dr. Ch. Saikumar or another qualified specialist.

Patient questions

ERCP — common questions

Answers to the questions we hear most often about ercp.

How is ERCP different from a regular endoscopy?
ERCP combines endoscopy with X-ray imaging to access the bile ducts and pancreatic duct. It can remove bile duct stones, open blocked ducts, and place stents — things a regular endoscopy can't do.
Is ERCP risky?
ERCP is more involved than routine endoscopy. The main risk is post-ERCP pancreatitis (about 3–5% of cases). We use modern techniques to minimise risk and monitor carefully afterwards.
Will I be admitted overnight?
Most patients go home the same day. Some cases — particularly when stones are removed or stents placed — need overnight observation. We'll discuss this with you in advance.
How long does ERCP take?
Typically 30–90 minutes depending on what needs to be done. Stone removal, stricture dilation, or stent placement happen in the same procedure and add time.
Can ERCP avoid surgery?
Often yes. ERCP can clear bile duct stones, drain a blocked duct, or stent a narrowing — interventions that previously required open surgery.
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