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Procedures

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP) in Charlotte

Minimally Invasive Diagnostic Tool by Charlotte's Leading Experts 

  • Advanced biliary endoscopy procedure for diagnosing and treating liver, gallbladder, bile duct, and pancreatic disorders
  • Minimally invasive outpatient procedure with clear results
  • Performed by specialists with 28+ years of experience
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TRUST YOUR GUT TO THE EXPERTS

What is ERCP?

ERCP combines endoscopy and X-ray imaging to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. During this procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera is guided down your esophagus. Once in place, a contrast dye is released to highlight your bile ducts, gallbladder, and pancreas, allowing your doctor to see issues that traditional endoscopy cannot reach.

Your doctor may recommend an ERCP if you have symptoms suggesting potential liver or pancreatic problems, or to treat known conditions. ERCP can be used to remove gallstones, place stents, drain cysts, or take biopsies for further testing.

Charlotte Gastro performs ERCP in Charlotte at Novant hospital campuses, making care convenient and accessible without compromising quality or safety.

CONDITIONS

Conditions We Treat

ERCP is used to diagnose and treat conditions related to the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, or pancreas, including:

Gallstones

Stones that form in the gallbladder or bile ducts, causing blockages, pain, and potentially serious complications. ERCP can locate and remove gallstones without major surgery.

Bile or Pancreatic Duct Blockages

Obstructions in the ducts that carry bile or pancreatic fluid, which can cause jaundice, abdominal pain, and infection if left untreated. ERCP can identify and clear these blockages.

Unexplained Abdominal Pain

When abdominal pain may be related to the liver, bile ducts, or pancreas, ERCP provides detailed imaging to identify and address the underlying cause.

Jaundice

Yellowing of the skin or eyes can indicate a bile duct obstruction. ERCP can identify and treat the blockage causing jaundice through a minimally invasive approach.

Duct Strictures

Narrowing of the bile or pancreatic ducts that can restrict flow and cause complications. ERCP can place stents to restore normal drainage and relieve symptoms.

Bile Duct Leaks or Injuries

Damage to the bile ducts resulting from surgery or injury. ERCP can repair these through minimally invasive techniques, avoiding the need for open surgery.

Risk Factors

  • History of gallstones or gallbladder disease
  • Prior episodes of pancreatitis
  • Family history of pancreatic or bile duct disease
  • Prior abdominal surgery affecting bile ducts
  • Known liver disease or cirrhosis

Symptoms

  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
  • Unexplained abdominal or upper back pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dark urine or pale/greasy stools
  • Fever with abdominal pain
THE PROCEDURE

What to Expect

Before the Procedure

1.

Stop eating and drinking after midnight the night before your procedure.

2.

Arrange for an adult to drive you to and from your appointment, as you will be sedated.

3.

Follow any additional medication instructions provided by your doctor prior to the procedure.

During and After the Procedure

You’ll be sedated for your comfort and safety upon arrival. Your doctor will then perform the ERCP, which typically takes 30–90 minutes depending on your specific needs. After the procedure, you’ll recover in our office for a brief period before going home with your adult driver. Some gas or mild abdominal discomfort after the procedure is common but generally resolves quickly.

Medications to Pause

  • Blood-thinning medications (as directed by your doctor)
  • Any medications your doctor advises pausing before the procedure

What to Bring

  • Insurance card
  • Photo ID
  • List of current medications
  • Completed patient intake forms
  • Arranged adult driver for after the procedure
TRUST YOUR GUT TO THE EXPERTS

Expert Care by Charlotte's Best Gastroenterologists

ERCP is an excellent biliary endoscopy tool for diagnosing and treating hard-to-reach areas without major surgery. Our team provides clear, high-quality results at Novant hospital campuses serving the greater Charlotte area, making sure you feel safe and comfortable throughout your visit.

Location and Scheduling

ERCP is available at Novant Main and Matthews hospitals. To make an appointment, call (704) 377-4009.

Questions about insurance? Our team can walk you through what’s covered, what isn’t, and what you can expect to pay out of pocket.

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FAQs

The procedure itself generally takes 30 - 90 minutes, depending on your specific needs. You should plan to stay in our office for an additional one to two hours for recovery, though complications are extremely rare.