MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: ERCP

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ERCP

During an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, a catheter is advanced through the endoscope and inserted into the pancreatic or biliary ducts. A contrast agent is injected into these ducts and X-rays are taken to evaluate their caliber, length and course. Narrowing, stones, and tumors in the ducts can be identified in the X-rays.

Update Date: 5/8/2006

Updated by: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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