Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a procedure that combines X-rays and an endoscope to diagnose or treat problems in the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts and pancreas. Interventional endoscopists can use ERCP to remove tissue or place a stent to open a blockage.
Who Would Benefit from ERCP?
You might benefit from ERCP if you have any of the following conditions:
- Bile duct cancer
- Gallbladder cancer
- Gallstones
- Pancreatic cancer
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
How Is ERCP Different from MRCP?
Radiologists at Rush offer magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), an alternative to ERCP for diagnosing conditions of the bile ducts, gallbladder and pancreas. MRCP is used for diagnosis only, while ERCP can be used for both diagnosis and treatment.
Rush Excellence in ERCP
- Fast turnaround times: Our team can usually perform your ERCP and provide your results within 24 to 48 hours. Our endoscopists are also on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week if you are critically ill and require urgent care.
- Expertise in complex ERCP: Our experts can perform more complicated procedures, including ERCP of your pancreas as well as endoscopic radiofrequency ablation. This advanced procedure can help improve your survival if you have bile duct cancer (cholangiocarcinoma).
- Top-ranked programs: If you are diagnosed with cancer or a serious GI issue, we have a dedicated team of experts committed to helping you through this time. That's just one reason why U.S. News & World Report ranks Rush University Medical Center's cancer, gastroenterology and GI surgery programs among the best in the country.
- A pioneer in ERCP for gallstones: If you need ERCP for gallstones, you'll receive care from some of the most experienced physicians in the country. Rush University Medical Center was one of the first hospitals in the United States to offer a form of ERCP that uses a special fiber-optic probe. It gives doctors a better view so you are less likely to need more tests.
- Excellence in endoscopic ultrasound (EUS): Rush specialists are also skilled in using this technique, which uses sound waves to find and evaluate cancers and other conditions of your pancreas, liver, gallbladder and digestive tract. This saves you the inconvenience of going to multiple locations to get the tests you may need.