Hospital Virtual Tour

ERCP - Risks

Alternative Names

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

What the risks are:

There is a possibility of side effects from the dye, and from the drug used to relax the duodenum. These side effects may include nausea, hives, blurred vision, a dry mouth, a feeling of burning or flushing, and retention of urine.

Side effects of anesthetics used can lead to breathing problems and low blood pressure, but these complications are rare. The risks of the procedure are determined by the treatment it is used for.

There is a risk of bleeding, perforation (hole) of the bowel, and pancreatitis. The risk of having any complication at all is less than 10%, and much lower for having a severe complication (severe pancreatitis, severe bleeding).

Special considerations:

Not applicable.

ERCP

Gallbladder endoscopy

Endoscopic retrograde cholangio pancreatography (ERCP) - series

Reviewed last on: 3/8/2008
Christian Stone, MD, Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Pasricha PJ. Gastrointestinal endoscopy. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2008:chap 136.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Home > Medical Reference > Encyclopedia (English)