ERCP, or Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography, is an endoscopic procedure commonly used in the diagnosis and treatment of digestive system problems. It is performed by gastroenterologists to detect or intervene in critical areas such as the liver, bile ducts and pancreatic duct. It can be used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, and during this procedure the patient is kept asleep with sedation drugs so that they do not feel any pain or discomfort.
It does not require any incisions in the body and starts from the patient's mouth and reaches the duodenum. At this stage, a contrast agent is administered to visualize the biliary tract and the resulting images are projected onto a screen. As this procedure is performed through the digestive tract cavities, the risk of inflammation is low and is performed by specialist gastroenterology doctors. It is a procedure that plays an important role in intervening and diagnosing digestive system problems quickly and effectively.
How is ERCP Performed?
ERCP is performed with the use of an endoscope and includes the following stages:
Patient Preparation: Before the procedure, the patient should usually fast for a certain period of time and sedation or anesthesia may be administered to achieve a relaxing effect during the procedure.
Placement of the Endoscope: During the procedure, the patient is placed on their back and a thin and flexible endoscope is inserted into the mouth. Starting in the mouth, the endoscope passes through the esophagus and stomach to reach the duodenum.
Injection of contrast medium: Once the endoscope reaches the duodenum, a special contrast agent is injected to visualize the bile ducts and pancreatic duct. This makes these areas better visible during radiologic imaging.
Imaging: After the injection of the contrast agent, detailed images of these areas are obtained using radiologic imaging equipment (usually X-ray). These images help to assess problems such as bile duct blockages, narrowings, gallstones or pancreatic problems.
Interventional Procedures: When blockages or narrowings need treatment during the procedure, doctors may perform interventional procedures. This may include placement of stents or procedures such as balloon dilatation to open blockages.
Withdrawal of the Endoscope: When the procedure is complete, the endoscope is gently withdrawn and removed from the mouth.
What is ERCP Used For?
ERCP is a medical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems in internal organs such as the bile ducts and pancreatic duct. Its intended uses include
Diagnosis of Bile Tract Problems: Used to diagnose biliary tract problems such as bile duct blockages, strictures, gallstones or inflammation.
Removal of Bile Tract Blockages: Can be used for interventional procedures such as placement of stents or balloon dilatation to open or relieve bile duct blockages.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Pancreatic Problems: It can be used to diagnose and sometimes treat pancreatic problems such as pancreatitis, pancreatitis or pancreatic tumors.
What are the Risks of ERCP?
Medical procedures such as ERCP may involve certain risks. These risks may differ for each patient and vary depending on the patient condition, the complexity of the procedure and the experience of the healthcare professional. Potential risks may include the following:
Complications: Serious complications such as infection, bleeding or organ injuries can rarely occur during the procedure.
Anesthesia-Related Risks: The use of sedation or anesthesia, although rare, may be associated with anesthesia-related risks, such as breathing problems or allergic reactions.
Pancreatitis: There is a risk of developing pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) after the procedure. This risk is low, but can be a serious complication.
Bile Tract Infections: May increase the risk of infection of the bile ducts.
Imaging Related Problems: Imaging-related problems, such as allergic reactions or kidney problems, can rarely occur during contrast media injection or imaging.
Bowel Problems: The risk of the endoscope damaging the bowel or perforating the bowel is very low, but theoretically possible.
Care After ERCP
Appropriate post-procedure care is important to support the patient's health and recovery. In the post-procedure period, patients are monitored, fluid intake is increased and eating patterns are observed. Medications recommended by the doctor are taken regularly and painkillers may be used for post-procedure pain or discomfort. The diet focuses on light and easily digestible foods, while avoiding excessive physical activity and resting.
Symptoms of possible complications after the procedure are closely monitored and doctor's recommendations are followed. In addition, regular medical check-ups ensure that the healing process is monitored. These measures are necessary to protect the health of patients after ERCP and reduce the risk of complications.
