Test Overview
An endoscopic
retrograde cholangiopancreatogram (ERCP) is a test that combines the use of a
flexible, lighted scope () with X-ray pictures to
examine the tubes that drain the
,
, and
.
The endoscope is inserted
through the mouth and gently moved down the throat into the
, stomach, and
until it reaches the point where the ducts
from the pancreas (pancreatic ducts) and gallbladder (bile ducts) drain into
the duodenum.
ERCP can treat certain problems found during the
test. If an abnormal growth is seen, an instrument can be inserted through the
endoscope to obtain a sample of the tissue for further testing (). If a gallstone is present in the
, the doctor can sometimes remove the
stone with instruments inserted through the endoscope. A narrowed bile duct can
be opened by inserting a small wire-mesh or plastic tube (called a stent)
through the endoscope and into the duct.