Therapeutic ERCP is a specialized endoscopic procedure offered at GastroExperts that goes beyond diagnosis. It combines the diagnostic capabilities of ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) with minimally invasive therapeutic interventions to address problems within the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts.
During a standard ERCP, your gastroenterologist can visualize the bile and pancreatic ducts using an endoscope and fluoroscopy. If they identify blockages, stones, strictures (narrowing), or other abnormalities, they can often address them during the same procedure using therapeutic techniques. This eliminates the need for separate surgery, offering a more efficient and potentially less invasive approach.
If gallstones are lodged in the bile duct, they can be extracted using special instruments passed through the endoscope..
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Tiny tubes called stents can be inserted to open narrowed ducts and facilitate bile or pancreatic juice flow.
Biopsies can be obtained during therapeutic ERCP to diagnose tumors or other abnormalities.
The opening of the bile duct (sphincter of Oddi) can be widened using a small incision to improve drainage and relieve blockages.
A small balloon can widen narrowed ducts without making an incision..
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Compared to traditional surgery, therapeutic ERCP offers a less invasive approach to treating bile duct and pancreatic issues.
Therapeutic ERCP is a minimally invasive procedure, so it generally has a shorter recovery time than surgery.
This approach identifies and addresses the problem in a single procedure, improving efficiency.
Therapeutic ERCP facilitates interventions specific to the identified abnormality within the ducts.
Suppose you have been diagnosed with gallstones in the bile duct. If you experience blockages due to strictures, tumors, or other abnormalities identified through initial ERCP, you might be a candidate for therapeutic ERCP. Your gastroenterologist will discuss your case and determine if this approach suits you.
The recovery experience is similar to a standard ERCP. You might experience some throat soreness and mild abdominal discomfort, but most patients recover within a day and can resume normal activities soon after.
While generally safe, therapeutic ERCP carries some potential risks like bleeding, infection, pancreatitis, or allergic reaction to the contrast dye. Your gastroenterologist will discuss these risks thoroughly before the procedure.
At GastroExperts, our highly skilled and experienced gastroenterologists are well-versed in performing therapeutic ERCP. We leverage advanced technology and prioritize patient safety to deliver the best possible outcomes. If you have been diagnosed with a bile duct or pancreatic duct condition and require treatment, contact GastroExperts to schedule a consultation with one of our gastroenterologists to discuss whether therapeutic ERCP is the right approach.
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