ERCP

Alternative names:

endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

What the risks are:

There is a possibility of side effects from the dye and the drug used to relax the duodenum. These may include nausea, hives, blurred vision, a dry mouth, a feeling of burning or flushing, and retention of urine. The risks of the procedure are determined by the therapy delivered. If the opening into the small bowel is enlarged by electrocautery (called a sphincterotomy) there is a risk of bleeding, perforation of the bowel, and pancreatitis. The risk of any complication is less than 10%. Severe complications (severe pancreatitis, severe bleeding) occur in less than 1%.

Special considerations:

Not applicable.