ENDOSCOPIC RETROGRADE CHOLANGIOPANCREATOGRAPHY (ERCP)
Exploration of the small tubes of the digestive tract and the bile and pancreatic ducts.
Before the examination
Important :
- Fast from midnight, except for taking your medication with a bit of water.
- Bring an up-to-date list of the medications you are taking.
- Bring your health insurance card.
- Bring your hospital card (if you do not have one, we will make one for you).
- Bring the identification card if you have a pacemaker.
You may be asked to temporarily stop some of your medications before the procedure (for example, anticoagulants).
How a ERCP is performed
The doctor will proceed with the examination with the help of a flexible tube (endoscope) that will be introduced through your mouth to reach your small intestine. This tube is equipped with a camera that will allow bile and pancreatic ducts to be seen. These ducts empty their fluids into the small intestine and are part of the digestive system.
Length of the examination
The examination lasts for between 30 and 60 minutes, and you will remain under observation for approximately one hour or more depending on your situation. You must not eat or drink anything for two hours after your examination to make sure that your throat is properly unfrozen. You must be accompanied for your return home as you are not allowed to drive for the 24 hours following your examination, if it required sedation (medication to relax you).