KTPH Hepato–Pancreato–Biliary Surgery Service (HPB)

The ERCP procedure uses a bendable, lighted camera (endoscope) about the thickness of an index finger through the mouth passing through the oesophagus (food pipe), the stomach and the top part of the small intestine (duodenum). In the duodenum a small opening is identified (ampulla) and a small plastic tube (cannula) is passed through the endoscope and into this opening. Dye (contrast material) is injected and X-rays are taken to study the ducts of the pancreas and liver. The opening may be widened and instruments may be passed through for treatment, such as relieving blockage and removing stones.