Information for Patients
- What is an ERCP?
- What are the alternatives?
- What are the risks?
- What conditions require ERCP
- What should I do to prepare?
- How do I get there?
- What time am I expected?
- Do I have to fast?
Download the the patient information instruction sheet
1. What is an ERCP?
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, or ERCP, is a specialized technique used to study the ducts or “drainage tubes” of the gallbladder, pancreas and liver.
2. What are the alternatives?
- the options should be discussed with your doctor
- they include an operation, either an open operation or a keyhole surgery
- percutaenous, or needle puncture of the skin and through the liver
3. What are the risks?
- Bleeding
- Pancreatitis
- Perforation
- Infection
- Anaesthetic problems
- Download the the patient information instruction sheet for further information about risks
- print this page for your information
4. What conditions require ERCP
- Cholangitis
- Stone in the Bile duct
- Malignant obstruction to the lower biliary system
- ampullary lesions
- click to see more
- see map of St Vincent's Hospital
- see map of Box Hill Hospital
- see map of Epworth Eastern Hospital
- see map of St Vincent's Private Hospital
- ask your doctor
- and confirm with the hospital in which it will be taking place
- for 6 hours before the procedure
5. How do I get there?
6. What time am I expected?
7. Do I have to fast?
For further information see the GESA patient information sheet