If your doctor has recommended that you undergo an ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography), it’s likely they suspect a problem with your bile ducts, gallbladder, liver, or pancreas. This is a specialized endoscopic examination in which the doctor takes internal images of the bile and pancreatic ducts to check for any blockages, stones, or infections.
However, when the report comes back after the examination, many patients don’t understand what the ERCP report says and what the different terms mean. This article is intended to explain just that—so you can read your ERCP report yourself and ask your doctor the right questions.
What is an ERCP test?
ERCP is both a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure. This means it not only identifies the disease but also treats it in some cases.
During this examination, the doctor inserts a flexible tube (endoscope) through your mouth, esophagus, stomach, and then into the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). A special dye (contrast material) is then injected into the bile and pancreatic ducts. X-rays are then taken to see if there are any blockages, stones, or abnormal changes.
What is in an ERCP report?
Your ERCP report is usually divided into four sections:
- Procedure Details: This section describes how the test was performed, what equipment was used, and whether there were any complications.
- Findings: This section describes what was observed in your ducts—whether there are any stones, strictures (narrowing), leaks, or inflammation.
- Intervention: If the doctor performed any treatment during the procedure, such as removing a stone or inserting a stent, it is recorded here.
- Impression/Conclusion (Final Conclusion): This section contains the doctor’s final opinion, explaining the cause of your symptoms and what further treatment is needed.
Easy Ways to Understand Your ERCP Results
Pay Attention to the Impression: The “Impression” or “Conclusion” line in your report is the most important. This is the section that tells you what the main problem was found to be.
Examples: “CBD stone seen and removed” means that a stone was found in the bile duct and removed.
“Stricture noted in distal CBD” means that the lower part of the bile duct is narrowed.
Check if an Intervention was Performed: If the report says “Stent placed,” it means the doctor inserted a small tube into the duct to ensure proper bile flow.
“Sphincterotomy done” means that a small incision was made at the opening of the duct to relieve an obstruction.
Discuss the Report with Your Doctor: It is essential to review every medical report with your doctor because some findings have deeper implications.
For example, “mild dilatation of CBD” does not necessarily mean a serious illness; it can be due to normal aging or an infection.
What abnormal conditions can be found in an ERCP report?
- Gallstones or Bile Duct Stones: This is the most common reason for performing an ERCP. If a stone gets stuck in the duct, it can block the flow of bile, causing pain, fever, and jaundice.
- Bile Duct Stricture (Narrowing): This can be due to chronic inflammation, a complication after surgery, or cancer.
- Pancreatitis (Inflammation of the Pancreas): If the report mentions “pancreatic duct dilatation,” it may indicate inflammation or a blockage.
- Tumor or Mass Lesion: Sometimes the report will state “mass lesion seen” or “suspicious for malignancy,” which may indicate cancer. In this case, a biopsy is usually required.
What precautions should be taken after ERCP?
- Rest: You may feel sleepy or drowsy for a few hours after the procedure because you were given anesthesia.
- Eat light meals: Start with liquids or soft foods, and avoid spicy or fried foods for a few days.
- Watch for signs of infection: If you experience a high fever, severe abdominal pain, or vomiting, contact your doctor immediately.
- Take medications regularly: If your doctor has prescribed antibiotics or pain relievers, take them on time.
What to do if a stent has been placed?
- If your ERCP report states that a stent has been placed, it means that a small plastic or metal tube has been inserted into your bile duct to prevent obstruction of bile flow.
- This stent is temporary and usually needs to be removed after 3–6 months.
- The risk of infection is slightly increased while the stent is in place, so it is important to take antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor.
- If you experience jaundice, fever, or dark urine, go to the hospital immediately.
When to contact a doctor immediately? High fever (over 102°F)
- Persistent vomiting or abdominal swelling
- Worsening jaundice or dark urine
- Difficulty breathing
- Blood in the stool
These are all signs that a complication may have occurred after ERCP, and immediate medical attention is needed.
Conclusion
Reading and understanding an ERCP report may seem difficult, but once you understand the basic terminology and indicators, it becomes quite easy Your report is not just a collection of medical terms, but it tells the story of your liver and pancreas health The purpose of ERCP is not to scare you, but to provide relief. With proper understanding and regular follow-up, you can protect your health and prevent future complications.
