Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatogram (ERCP)

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatogram (ERCP) is an outpatient procedure in which an endoscope is used to help diagnose and treat conditions of the digestive track. During the examn, a tube is used to inject dye into specific areas to be simultaneously x-rayed by the endoscope.. By viewing the tract through the scope, as well as the x-rays taken during the procedure, a physician can study functioning elements of the gall bladder, bile ducts, pancreas, and liver, all of which have contributing functions within the digestive process.

If an obstruction is discovered during examination, such as a gallstone, instruments can be inserted through the scope to remove it. These instruments may also be used to gather tissue samples for further testing.