Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) Diagnostic:

ERCP is a technique intended for an endoscopic-x-ray visualization of the biliary and pancreatic duct to diagnose diseases of this location (ampulla of Vater, bile duct, pancreatic duct, gallbladder and liver).

It is made with a duodenoscope, an endoscope with special characteristics (side view) that is inserted through the mouth to go through the esophagus, stomach and duodenum to locate the papillary orifice where flow where the bile and pancreatic duct. Next, the doctor inserts a thin duct in a plastic tube called a catheter and injects them a contrast that allows you to take radiographs.

Examination is performed fasting and under sedation. After is normally recommended to remain in hospital for 24 hours.

 

Endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy:

The discovery of certain diseases may require during ERCP, performing an endoscopic sphincterotomy (cutting the papillary orifice). With the help of electric current which expands the papillary orifice allowing better drainage of bile extraction during the act and calculus that are in the bile duct. In addition, you can complete the technique with biopsy or material for study.

 

Bile and pancreatic prosthesis:

In patients with narrowness of bile or pancreatic ducts, or in case of non-removable of great size calculus in patients with chronic pancreatitis or pancreatic cysts is possible through duodenoscope during diagnostic ERCP, inserting a plastic tube or metal expandable (stent) into the same, to ensure drainage of bile and / or pancreatic juice.