Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatogram (ERCP)

Test Overview

An endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatogram (ERCP) test checks the tubes (ducts) that drain the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. A flexible, lighted scope (endoscope) and X-ray pictures are used.

The scope is put through the mouth and gently moved down the throat. It goes through your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum until it reaches the point where the ducts from the pancreas and gallbladder drain into the duodenum. A dye is put into the ducts, and X-rays are then taken.

ERCP can diagnose and treat certain problems found during the test. In some cases, your doctor can insert small tools through the scope to:

• Take a sample of tissue (biopsy) from an abnormal growth. Then it can be checked for problems.
• Remove a gallstone in the common bile duct.
• Open a narrowed bile duct. The duct can be opened by inserting a small wire-mesh or plastic tube (called a stent) into it.