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Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography - ERCP |
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What is the procedure?
The exam takes place in an x-ray room in the hospital and takes 30-60 minutes.
Plan to stay in the hospital for about 3-4 hours. Occasionally an overnight stay
is required for observation after an ERCP. The doctor will give you intravenous
medication to make you drowsy and relaxed. By using a thin flexible endoscope
the procedure allows the doctor to examine the ductal system of the gallbladder,
liver and pancreas with the help of special x-rays. If stones are found in the
bile ducts, the opening may be expanded to allow the stones to pass. If there is
a narrowing in the duct, a tube called a stent may be placed. After the
procedure, you will return to the recovery area and be observed closely. The
physician will discharge you with a written report on what was done and any
follow up instructions. You will need to have a follow up appointment with your
doctor to discuss the findings.
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Procedures 
