Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography procedures at Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates

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At Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates, we’ve spent nearly three decades catering to patients all over the Lakewood, CO area. When you need endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), we’re the team to rely on. ERCP is an excellent way for our professionals to diagnose and treat specific problems in the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. With us, you can rest easy knowing you’re in skilled and knowledgeable hands. Our team goes above and beyond to ensure you have the best solutions to overcome whatever issues you may be facing. Learn more about ERCP and how our services can get you back on track to living a happy and healthy life for years to come.

What is Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography?

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is an endoscopic procedure that combines upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and x-rays to diagnose and treat problems in the bile and pancreatic duct systems. These systems are responsible for carrying bile and fluids to other parts of the body. The ERCP procedure is used for diagnostics when the biliary or pancreatic systems become blocked. We also use this procedure when the pancreatic system becomes narrow from due to several different conditions such as gallstones, pancreatitis (acute or chronic), infection, complications from surgery, or possibly tumors or cancers in the ducts.

How is Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Done?

Using a flexible and narrow tube with a camera attached – known as an endoscope – our physicians will examine the inside of the stomach and duodenum. Here, we inject radiographic contrast dye into the pancreatic ducts so they can be seen on the X-rays. This allows our doctors to see stones, abnormal narrowing, or blockages in the ducts. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is also known for being extremely helpful when it comes to the removal of biliary tract stones, diagnosis of biliary tract cancer, and treatment of biliary and pancreatic strictures.

The Benefits of Receiving ERCP

There are many benefits associated with ERCP. This innovative procedure gives our professionals detailed information about a patient’s pancreas and bile ducts so we can help them overcome issues at the root rather than merely mitigating isolated symptoms. Some of the critical benefits of ERCP include the following:

  • ERCP allows your doctor to gain detailed and accurate information regarding your pancreatobiliary system.
  • ERCP offers a far less invasive option for the treatment of both the bile duct and the pancreas.
  • ERCP can be used to help remove pancreatic stones and other obstructions.
  • ERCP can be used to put a stent in the area to help alleviate any blockage or pain.
  • ERCP can help eliminate symptoms such as itching, dark-colored urine, loss of appetite, and more.
  • ERCP dramatically reduces risks of complications down the road.

When is ERCP Used?

ERCP is used as a therapeutic procedure when patient complaints or lab tests indicate issues within the bile and pancreatic duct. Our team has ample experience utilizing this innovative therapy when an obstruction of some sort has affected our patients’ health. ERCP is mainly used in cases where bypassing an obstruction is necessary or in the removal and treatment of tumors, inflammation, gallstones, jaundice, cancer, infections, fluid, scarring, or tissue debris.

Who is a Candidate for ERCP?

You can receive ERCP at any age, and this is a procedure necessary for many people to live happy and healthy lives. Though our doctors will help you determine whether you’re a candidate for ERCP, this therapeutic procedure is most commonly used on individuals struggling with the following:

  • Gallstone disease-causing pancreatitis
  • Inflammatory disorders affecting the pancreas
  • Acute recurrent pancreatitis
  • Chronic pancreatitis
  • Stones blocking the pancreatic duct
  • Narrowing (strictures) within the duct
  • Injuries to the duct
  • Abnormal anatomy of the pancreas or duct

Schedule Your Appointment Today!

When you need endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the Lakewood, CO area, rely on the gastroenterology specialists at Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates. Our team has the skills and solutions to transform the quality of our patients’ day-to-day lives completely. Contact us now to schedule your appointment. We look forward to assisting you on your journey toward a pain-free life.

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