ERCP for CBD Stones
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography in Bangalore
Overview
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is a specialized non-surgical procedure to diagnose and treat problems in the bile ducts and pancreatic duct, including common bile duct (CBD) stones.
What Is ERCP for CBD Stones?
ERCP combines endoscopy and X-ray imaging. A flexible tube (endoscope) is passed through the mouth, stomach, and into the small intestine. Contrast dye is injected into the bile ducts to visualize stones, and specialized instruments remove them — all without any surgical incisions.
Benefits
- No surgical incisions required
- Performed under sedation (not general anesthesia)
- Treats jaundice caused by bile duct stones
- Same-day procedure with overnight observation
- Highly effective (95%+ stone clearance rate)
- Can diagnose and treat simultaneously
- Prevents serious complications like pancreatitis
The Procedure
- Fasting for 6–8 hours before procedure
- IV sedation administered
- Endoscope passed through mouth to small intestine
- Contrast dye injected into bile ducts
- X-ray images taken to locate stones
- Sphincterotomy (small cut) to widen bile duct opening
- Stones removed using balloon or basket
- Stent placed if needed for drainage
Recovery Timeline
Who Is a Good Candidate?
- Patients with CBD stones causing jaundice
- Bile duct obstruction
- Gallstone pancreatitis
- Cholangitis (bile duct infection)
- Before or after gallbladder surgery
Risks & Considerations
All surgical procedures carry some risk. We discuss these openly with every patient:
- Pancreatitis (3–5% risk, usually mild)
- Bleeding at sphincterotomy site
- Infection (cholangitis)
- Perforation (rare, <1%)
- Incomplete stone removal requiring repeat procedure
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ERCP painful?
ERCP is performed under sedation, so you won't feel pain during the procedure. Some mild discomfort or bloating may occur afterward, which resolves quickly.
Do I still need gallbladder surgery after ERCP?
ERCP treats CBD stones but not the gallbladder itself. If you have gallbladder stones as well, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is usually recommended after ERCP.