Patient education: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) – Discharge instructions (The Basics)

What are discharge instructions? — Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care for a health problem.

What is endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography? — Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography ("ERCP") is a procedure doctors use to look at the liver, pancreas, and bile ducts.

During ERCP, the doctor uses a thin tube with a light and a tiny camera on the end. This is called an "endoscope." It goes into the mouth and is passed down the throat and through the stomach into the intestines. The endoscope lets the doctor check the liver, pancreas, and bile ducts (figure 1). ERCP can be used to check for problems in these organs. It can also be used to treat certain conditions.

How do I care for myself at home? — Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure that you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.

For the first 24 hours after the procedure:

●Do not drive or operate heavy or dangerous machinery.

●Do not make any important decisions or sign any important papers.

●Do not drink alcohol of any kind.

You should also:

●Suck on a throat lozenge to help with sore throat, if needed.

●Expect to feel bloated or have pressure in your belly. You might also feel the need to burp for a few days after the procedure. This is from the scope that the doctor used for the procedure.

●Follow instructions about diet – Your doctor or nurse might tell you to follow a clear liquid diet for a certain amount of time. After this, you can eat normally again once you feel ready. It might help to start with foods that are easy to digest, like soup, pudding, toast, or eggs.

●Increase your activity slowly – Start with short walks around your home, and walk a little more each day.

What follow-up care do I need? — Your doctor or nurse will tell you if you need to make a follow-up appointment. If so, make sure that you know when and where to go. The doctor might want to talk to you about your results and any further treatment you might need. Together, you can make a plan for more care if needed.

When should I call the doctor? — Call for advice if:

●You have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills.

●You have very bad pain in your throat, chest, or belly.

●Your belly is firm, swollen, or tender.

●You are vomiting.

●Your bowel movements (stools) are black or bloody.

●You have a crunching feeling under the skin.

More on this topic

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