ERCP stands for endoscopic retrograde cholangio pancreatography. This is a test that uses a type of X-ray. We use it to diagnose and treat problems with your biliary system.
Your biliary system is made up of organs and tubes that produce, store and transport a fluid called bile. Bile helps your body digest fat.
After your procedure
We have given you sedation which may make you feel sleepy and forgetful.
For 24 hours do not drive, operate machinery (including kettles and cookers), drink alcohol or sign legal documents.
Allow 24 hours to recover before you return to work.
You must have a responsible adult with you during this 24 hour period.
We have given you throat spray.
You can next eat or drink at _________________________ hours.
After your procedure, you may feel bloated and/or have a sore throat for 1 or 2 days. This is normal.
When to seek urgent medical care
Make an urgent GP appointment or go to your nearest Emergency Department (A&E) if you experience any of the following during the 48 hours after your procedure:
- severe or continuing pain in your chest
- abdominal (tummy) pain. (Especially if it becomes gradually worse, and is different or more intense than any usual pain or heartburn that you may have).
- fever (raised temperature)
- tachycardia (fast heart rate)
- hypotension (low blood pressure) [symptoms?]
- difficulty breathing
- nausea and vomiting
- passing black stools (pooh).
Follow-up
Nursing staff will tick the boxes below which are relevant to your endoscopy report.
You will need to have this procedure again.
We have made an appointment for you on _________________________.
or
We will make an appointment for you in _________ months __________ years.
We have taken biopsies (samples) or removed polyps (tissue growths). Biopsy reports can take up to 6 weeks and they will be sent to your GP and/or consultant.
We have given you a copy of your endoscopy report.
We will post the results of your procedure to your GP or consultant. This takes about 5 days. They will either write to you or arrange to see you again in the clinic.
We have referred you to the Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS).
You will need a further investigation with a CT scan or chest X-ray.
You will need a repeat blood test.
Important
If you have not received your biopsy results for more than 2 weeks, contact your GP or call Kingston Hospital and ask to be connected to your consultant secretary.
Contact information
Endoscopy Unit, Monday to Friday 8am to 5.30pm
Out of hours (5.30pm to 8am), contact Kingston Hospital Hardy Ward
For urgent attention, go to the Kingston Hospital Emergency Department (A&E)
Telephone:
Endoscopy Unit: 020 8934 6433 or 020 8934 6613
Hardy Ward: 020 8934 2316 or 020 8934 2315