What are the risks of an ERCP procedure?

Endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP) is a well-tolerated procedure when performed by doctors who are specially trained and experienced in the technique. Although complications requiring hospitalization can occur, they are uncommon. Complications can include pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), infections, bowel perforation and bleeding. Some patients can have an adverse reaction to the sedative used. Sometimes the procedure cannot be completed for technical reasons. Risks vary, depending on why the test is performed, what is found during the procedure, what therapeutic intervention is undertaken and whether a patient has major medical problems. Patients undergoing therapeutic ERCP, such as for stone removal, face a higher risk of complications than patients undergoing diagnostic ERCP. Your doctor will discuss your likelihood of complications with you before you undergo the test.

An endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatogram (ERCP) is a test that does have some risks. Having this test may cause serious problems, such as:

• Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).
• Bleeding, which may occur if the pancreatic or bile ducts are widened during the procedure or if biopsies are taken during the ERCP.
• Infection of the bile ducts, which may occur if gallstones were removed.
• Infection of the blood (sepsis).
• An abnormal heart rhythm.
• A puncture of the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, bile duct or pancreatic duct. If this happens, you will need to have surgery to repair the puncture.
• Problems caused by anesthesia.

After the test, call your doctor immediately if you:

• Have nausea or vomiting.
• Have new or increased belly pain.
• Develop a fever or chills.
• Feel short of breath.
• Are dizzy or feel like you may faint.

People with serious heart disease and older adults with other chronic diseases have a greater chance of having problems from this test. Although complications are not common, talk to your doctor about your specific risks.