ERCP is a specialized endoscopic procedure used to diagnose and treat disorders of the bile ducts, pancreatic duct, and gallbladder. It is commonly performed in patients with conditions such as gallstones, biliary strictures, pancreatitis, or pancreatic tumors. ERCP combines endoscopy with fluoroscopy, a type of X-ray imaging, to visualize the biliary and pancreatic ducts and perform various therapeutic interventions.

During ERCP, an endoscope is inserted through the mouth and into the duodenum, where a catheter is advanced into the bile ducts and pancreatic duct. Contrast dye is then injected to outline the ductal anatomy and identify any abnormalities. ERCP can be used to remove gallstones, dilate strictures or narrowings in the bile ducts or pancreatic duct, place stents to relieve obstructions, or obtain tissue samples (biopsies) for further evaluation. The procedure is usually performed under sedation to ensure patient comfort and may require specialized expertise in gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Treatment may include:

• Removal of gallstones or bile duct stones using specialized instruments
• Placement of stents to relieve bile duct obstruction
• Dilatation of strictures or narrowings in the bile ducts or pancreatic duct
• Biopsy to obtain tissue samples for diagnosis
• Treatment of conditions such as pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer