Clearing the Path: ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-Pancreatography) What is an ERCP? ERCP is a highly specialized procedure that combines the power of endoscopy with the precision of X-ray imaging. It is specifically designed to diagnose and treat conditions of the "biliary tree"—the network of ducts that carry bile and digestive juices from the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas to the small intestine. During the procedure, a specialized endoscope is guided through the mouth to the point where the bile duct opens into the small intestine. A thin tube is then inserted into the duct to inject a special dye, allowing the doctor to see the entire duct system clearly on X-ray monitors. If a problem is found, such as a stone or a narrowing, the doctor can often fix it immediately by removing the stone, performing a small incision (sphincterotomy), or placing a stent to keep the duct open. Why is this Procedure Personally Vital for You? ERCP is often a critical intervention for symptoms that cannot be resolved through standard surgery or medication. This procedure is personally vital for you if: You are Experiencing Jaundice: Yellowing of the eyes and skin often indicates a blockage in the bile duct (such as a gallstone or tumour) that must be cleared to restore liver function. Gallstones Have Migrated: If a stone has moved from your gallbladder into the bile duct, it can cause severe pain and life-threatening infections if not removed promptly via ERCP. You Suffer from Chronic Pancreatitis: If your pancreatic duct is narrowed or blocked by stones or inflammation, ERCP can provide drainage and significantly reduce chronic pain. A Duct Obstruction Requires a Stent: For patients in our Hepatobiliary tumours and cancer track, ERCP is a vital tool for placing internal stents to bypass obstructions and improve quality of life. The Path to Internal Relief and Stabilization The goal of an ERCP is to restore the natural flow of digestive fluids, preventing organ damage and eliminating the source of your pain. This pathway is designed to: Provide Immediate Therapeutic Results: Because we can treat issues during the diagnostic phase, many patients experience a rapid reduction in symptoms, such as the clearing of jaundice or relief from sharp abdominal pain. Ensure a High-Precision Workup: ERCP is a complex procedure. To ensure your safety, we require a comprehensive medical history, diagnostic X-rays (or CT/MRI scans to map the ducts beforehand), and blood tests (to check your liver enzymes, amylase, and clotting factors). A Focused Recovery and Stabilization Window: ERCP requires expert post-procedural monitoring to ensure the pancreas and liver are responding well to the intervention. We focus on a 2–3 week recovery and stabilization period. During this time, our multidisciplinary team will guide your nutritional intake and monitor your enzyme levels, ensuring your system is perfectly stable and functional. All details are subject to doctor evaluation for the final treatment plan.