ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is a medical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems with the biliary system. This system produces, stores, and transports a fluid called bile in our bodies. This fluid helps our bodies digest fat. Through ERCP, doctors can identify and treat blockages, infections, or other disorders related to the bile ducts, gallbladder, and pancreas.
Normal Conditions After the Procedure
After an ERCP, patients may experience mild abdominal or upper abdominal pain, gas, or difficulty swallowing for a few days. These symptoms are normal and gradually resolve on their own. If you were given sedation (mild anesthetic) or general anesthesia (complete unconsciousness) during the procedure, you may be discharged from the hospital within 24 hours, but you must have someone at least 18 years of age accompany you to drive you home and care for you overnight.
Recovery Process
After the procedure is over, a nurse takes you to the recovery area. There, your pulse, blood pressure, and other vital signs are regularly checked to identify any complications immediately. You typically stay in the endoscopy unit for 4 to 6 hours so doctors can ensure there are no problems.
If you are being transferred to your hospital by ambulance, you will need to wait until you are fully awake, which usually takes at least 1 hour.
Medications
You can continue taking your regular medications after the ERCP, unless your doctor advises otherwise. If you were asked to stop certain medications before the procedure, your doctor or nurse will tell you when it’s safe to start them again.
Food and Drink Instructions
Once you’re fully awake, you can eat normal meals. However, in some cases, your doctor may tell you not to eat or drink anything for 12 hours or more, depending on the treatment performed during the procedure.
Your doctor or nurse will tell you when to start eating and whether you should eat a soft or bland diet for a while. Gradually, start eating solid foods as your body feels normal.
Precautions After Returning Home from the Hospital
If you received sedation or general anesthesia, it’s important that an adult drive you home and stay with you for at least one night.
Get plenty of rest once you’re home, as the effects of sedation can last for several hours. Do not do the following for the first 24 hours:
- Do not drive or ride a bicycle.
- Do not operate machinery or perform any work that requires attention and skill.
- Do not drink alcohol.
- Do not take sleeping pills.
- Do not go to the office or any workplace.
- Do not make any important decisions.
- Do not sign any contracts or legal documents.
Contact your doctor immediately if:
If you experience the following symptoms, go to your doctor or the nearest emergency department (A&E) immediately:
- Severe or increasing abdominal pain
- High body temperature or fever
- Darkening of stools
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Persistent vomiting or vomiting that does not stop
Also, take the endoscopy report with you from the hospital so that your doctor can better understand your condition and consult the gastroenterology team if necessary.
Possible Side Effects
Mild discomfort swallowing may last up to 48 hours after ERCP. Some patients experience this discomfort for up to a few weeks, but it gradually subsides.
Stomach bloating or gas is often caused by the air injected into your stomach during the procedure. This is normal and usually resolves within 24 hours.
If gas or discomfort persists, walking or changing body positions may provide relief. Warm drinks such as mint tea or mint water also provide relief.
At the end of the procedure, you will be given a suppository to reduce pain, which reduces the risk of pancreatitis.
If mild pain persists, simple pain relievers such as paracetamol can be taken. Always take these according to the instructions on the package.
Results and Further Procedures
Your doctor or nurse will discuss the ERCP results and next steps. However, if you’re still feeling drowsy, you may not remember everything. So, be sure to pick up your report when you leave the hospital.
Your results are sent to the doctor who referred you for the test. Your personal doctor will receive this report in approximately 10 to 14 days.
Follow-up Appointment
If your report indicates the need for further testing or treatment, the hospital’s Patient Access Team will contact you.
This appointment is usually notified by mail or phone, but if the situation is serious, you’ll be informed of next steps the same day.
Conclusion
ERCP is a highly useful medical procedure that treats complex problems involving the biliary and pancreatic systems.It helps identify and treat complications. While this procedure is considered relatively safe, precautions are essential afterward. By following your doctor’s instructions and paying attention to your body’s signals, you can recover quickly and safely.
With proper care, adequate rest, and adherence to medical advice, you can return to normal life within a few days. Remember, even a small negligence can lead to a major problem, so be vigilant and put your health first.
