Diagnose the source of concerning symptoms; potentially prevent the need for surgery with ERCP
At Triborough GI, our board-certified gastroenterologists also boast an array of subspecialty expertise in advanced endoscopic therapies. Our specialists’ wide range of capabilities include Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography or ERCP. One of our seven trusted providers in the New York City area is sure to be close by, as we support four locations – in Brooklyn, Bushwick, the Bronx, and Staten Island.
An introduction to ERCP
This procedure blends endoscopy, x-ray imaging, and dye to both analyze and support accurate diagnostics associated with conditions of the biliary tract and pancreatic ducts and potentially treat issues such as stones by removing them. In some cases, ERCP may even help you to avoid the need for future surgical interventions.
What to expect
Follow any instructions provided by our team, which largely involve not eating or drinking for six-plus hours before your procedure. Since pain-blocking medications/sedatives are administered, you must arrange for transportation. These medications cause lingering drowsiness, making driving and operating machinery afterward unsafe. Due to this, it is also advised not to work and to rest for the remainder of the day following your appointment.
For utmost comfort during the ERCP, a numbing throat spray may be applied before the long, flexible endoscope is inserted into your mouth. Once you are comfortable and relaxed, the scope is also passed through the esophagus and into the first section of the small intestine. The endoscope is equipped with a tiny camera and light, which allows our doctors to see these tissues and structures up close. As needed, a small bit of tissue is taken or biopsied for further analysis and to rule out certain conditions.
Additionally, a smaller tube is passed through the endoscope in the small intestine, which is then introduced into either the pancreatic or common bile ducts, depending on your cause of concern. This tube applies a special dye in the ducts, which is used to render x-ray images of the area – to pinpoint narrowed or blocked ducts and other problems that may need to be treated.
Afterward, we will monitor your recovery and wait until the medicine wears off before discharging you. Feeling some minor bloating and experiencing flatulence after the test is not unusual. You may also have stool changes that typically subside within 24 hours following ERCP. We will also discuss results and review additional testing and follow-up needed. You can generally return to your “regular” activities the next day, and Triborough GI will also let you know what and when to drink and eat normally again. Call our offices in Brooklyn, Bushwick, the Bronx, and Staten Island at the following numbers: (718) 332-0600 for Brooklyn, (718) 987-1700 for Staten Island, (718) 292-3822 for the Bronx, and (718) 821-0643 for Bushwick.
