Name of the Procedure:

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP); Diagnostic, including Collection of Specimen(s) by Brushing or Washing, when Performed (Separate Procedure)

Summary

ERCP is a medical procedure that combines the use of endoscopy and fluoroscopy to diagnose diseases of the bile ducts, gallbladder, and pancreas. During the procedure, tissue or fluid samples can be collected for further examination.

Purpose

ERCP is primarily used to diagnose and sometimes treat conditions related to the bile ducts and pancreas. These conditions can include blockages, stones, tumors, or narrowing of the ducts. The main goals are to identify the cause of symptoms and collect specimens for analysis.

Indications

• Unexplained jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Abnormal liver function tests
• Persistent upper abdominal pain
• Suspected bile duct or pancreatic duct obstruction
• Pancreatitis with unknown etiology

Preparation

• Patients are usually required to fast for 6 to 8 hours before the procedure.
• Certain medications might need to be adjusted or paused.
• Blood tests may be conducted to check for clotting and liver functions.
• Patients may need to arrange for transportation, as sedation is typically used.

Procedure Description

1. The patient receives sedation or anesthesia to ensure comfort.
2. An endoscope (a flexible tube with a camera) is passed through the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and into the duodenum.
3. A contrast dye is injected through a small catheter into the bile and pancreatic ducts to make them visible on X-ray images.
4. If necessary, brushing or washing techniques are used to collect tissue or fluid samples for further examination.
5. The endoscope is carefully withdrawn once the examination is complete.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on complexity.

Setting

ERCP is usually performed in a hospital or a specialized endoscopy center equipped with fluoroscopy.

Personnel

• Gastroenterologist (specialized in ERCP)
• Nurses
• Radiologist (for fluoroscopy)
• Anesthesiologist (if deep sedation or general anesthesia is required)

Risks and Complications

• Pancreatitis
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Perforation of the gastrointestinal tract
• Reactions to sedation or contrast dye

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of issues in the bile ducts and pancreas
• Targeted specimen collection to inform treatment decisions
• Relief from blockages or obstructions if therapeutic procedures are conducted simultaneously

Recovery

• Observation in a recovery area until the effects of sedation wear off.
• Possible mild sore throat or bloating post-procedure.
• Patients can usually resume normal diet and activities within 24 hours.
• Follow-up instructions may include avoiding certain medications and scheduling an appointment to discuss results.

Alternatives

• Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP): a non-invasive imaging technique.
• Computed Tomography (CT) scan: another imaging option.
• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): for detailed imaging and biopsy capabilities.

Each alternative has its pros and cons. ERCP is unique in its ability to treat certain conditions during the diagnostic procedure.

Patient Experience

Patients might feel anxious before the procedure but are reassured by sedation making the process painless. Post-procedure discomforts like a sore throat or mild abdominal pain are common and usually resolve quickly. Pain management and reassurance from medical staff help ensure comfort.