ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography)

A short guide for patients at Valley Gastroenterology.

What is ERCP?

ERCP combines endoscopy and X‑rays to examine and treat problems in the bile duct and pancreatic duct. Through the scope, we can inject contrast dye, take X‑rays, and perform therapies such as stone removal, sphincterotomy (small cut to open the duct), stent placement, or dilation.

Why it’s done

  • Jaundice or abnormal liver tests due to bile duct blockage (stones, narrowing, or tumors)
  • Acute cholangitis (infected bile duct)
  • Pancreatic duct stones or strictures
  • Bile leaks after gallbladder or liver surgery
  • Tissue sampling/brushings for diagnosis

How to prepare

  • Fasting: Nothing to eat or drink after midnight unless we instruct otherwise.
  • Medications: Tell us about blood thinners, antiplatelets, diabetes meds, and GLP‑1s—we’ll give a tailored plan. Do not stop any medication without our guidance.
  • Allergies: Tell us about dye/contrast reactions and medication allergies.
  • Driver required after sedation.
  • Antibiotics: May be given before/after ERCP if infection risk is present (e.g., incomplete drainage, stent placement).

What to expect (day of)

  1. Check‑in & nursing assessment (15–30 min)
  1. Sedation/anesthesia for comfort and safety
  1. Procedure typically 30–90 minutes depending on findings and therapy
  1. Recovery 60–90 minutes; some patients stay longer for observation

Sore throat, gas, or mild bloating are common and usually improve within 24 hours.

Benefits & alternatives

Benefits: Relieves duct blockage, treats infection risk, enables stone removal and stenting in the same session.

Alternatives (situation‑dependent): MRCP (MRI imaging only), EUS‑guided procedures, or interventional radiology. These may diagnose but not treat certain problems.

Risks (important but uncommon)

  • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) — most common significant risk
  • Bleeding (higher if a sphincterotomy is performed)
  • Infection (cholangitis), especially if drainage is incomplete
  • Perforation, aspiration, reactions to sedation or contrast dye
  • Stent‑related issues (migration/blockage) requiring follow‑up

We review your individual risk and prevention steps (e.g., rectal NSAID, pancreatic duct stent when indicated) during consent.

After you go home

  • Start with clear liquids, advance diet as tolerated unless instructed otherwise
  • Avoid alcohol for 24 hours
  • Expect mild throat discomfort or gassiness
  • Call us or go to the ER immediately for severe/ worsening abdominal pain, fever >101°F, persistent vomiting, chest pain, shortness of breath, black/tarry stools, or inability to keep liquids down

Results & follow‑up

  • We discuss initial results before you leave
  • Pathology/cytology (if taken) typically returns in 7–14 days via phone or portal
  • Stent patients may need scheduled removal or exchange—our team will arrange this

Alaska‑specific travel note

We monitor Mat‑Su weather and road conditions. If travel is unsafe, we’ll reschedule without penalty and prioritize your next available slot.

Valley Gastroenterology

3190 E Meridian Park Loop, Suite 206

Wasilla, Alaska 99654

Phone: (907) 373-2544

Fax: (844) 689-4240

Web: ValleyGastroAK.com