What is Interventional ERCP ?

Interventional ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the bile ducts, gallbladder, and pancreatic ducts. ERCP combines the use of endoscopy and fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray imaging) to visualize and access these structures. During the procedure, a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope is inserted through the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and into the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). The endoscope has a small camera at its tip, allowing the doctor to see the internal structures. A contrast dye is then injected into the bile ducts or pancreatic ducts, and X-rays are taken to identify any abnormalities, such as blockages, narrowing, or stones. Interventional ERCP can also involve therapeutic interventions to treat certain conditions discovered during the procedure. For example, if a gallstone is detected, the doctor can use specialized tools through the endoscope to remove the stone or place a stent to bypass a blockage. Other interventions may include balloon dilation of strictures (narrowed areas) or taking biopsies for further analysis. This procedure is typically performed by gastroenterologists or interventional radiologists who have specialised training in ERCP techniques like Dr Amit Maydeo, who is highly efficient in performing ERCP with great precision. It is primarily used to diagnose and treat conditions such as gallstones, bile duct strictures, tumours, pancreatitis, and other disorders affecting the bile and pancreatic ducts. It's important to note that while ERCP is generally considered safe, it does carry some risks, including pancreatitis, infection, bleeding, or perforation of the gastrointestinal tract. The decision to undergo interventional ERCP is made on a case-by-case basis after evaluating the potential benefits and risks for each patient. When is ERCP used ? ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is used in a variety of clinical scenarios. Here are some common indications for performing an ERCP: Bile Duct Disorders: ERCP is commonly used to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the bile ducts, such as gallstones, biliary strictures (narrowing), biliary leaks, and tumors in the bile ducts. Pancreatic Disorders: ERCP can be used to evaluate and treat pancreatic disorders, including pancreatitis, pancreatic strictures, pancreatic tumors, and pseudocysts (fluid-filled sacs in the pancreas). Biliary Tract Obstruction: ERCP is often performed when there is a blockage in the bile ducts that can cause symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, and abnormal liver function tests. Diagnostic Evaluation: ERCP allows for the visualization and assessment of the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts, providing detailed information about their structure and any abnormalities present. Therapeutic Interventions: ERCP can be used to perform various therapeutic procedures, such as removing gallstones or other obstructions from the bile ducts, dilating strictures, placing stents to relieve blockages, and obtaining tissue samples for biopsy. Sphincter of Oddi Dysfunction: ERCP may be used in cases where there is suspected dysfunction of the Sphincter of Oddi, a muscular valve that controls the flow of bile and pancreatic juices into the small intestine. It's important to note that the decision to perform an ERCP is made on an individual basis, taking into account the patient's specific symptoms, medical history, and imaging findings. The procedure is typically performed by gastroenterologists or interventional radiologists with expertise in ERCP techniques.