ERCP |Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography

ERCP stands for Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography. It is a medical procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the bile ducts, pancreatic ducts, and gallbladder. During an ERCP, a flexible tube called an endoscope is inserted through the mouth and guided down into the small intestine. Contrast dye is then injected into the ducts, allowing X-ray images to be taken. This procedure can help identify problems such as gallstones, tumors, or blockages in the bile or pancreatic ducts. Additionally, certain treatments can be performed during an ERCP, such as removing gallstones, placing stents to open blocked ducts, or taking biopsies for further analysis. It is typically performed by a gastroenterologist or an interventional radiologist.