Pre-Operative Preparations For ERCP Stone Extraction

ERCP stands for Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. It is an invasive procedure performed by surgeons to diagnose and treat obstructions in the biliary system. Hence, the procedure is considered both a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure. The method is recommended for removing the gallstones and tumour from the bile duct if they are causing any problems.

During the procedure, both an endoscope and X-ray are used. Your surgeon will insert the endoscope through your mouth, esophagus and stomach into the duodenum or the small intestine. Here a dye is used to create a contrast and look for any abnormalities in the biliary and pancreatic ducts.

Now, to ensure a smooth and successful there are certain guidelines which are required to follow helping you a complete recovery. In this blog post, we will delve into the pre-operative measures of ERCP stone extraction.

When You Will Be Suggested ERCP Stone Extraction?

If you experience the following symptoms, there is a higher chance that you are suffering from disorders in your bile ducts. In that case, your doctor might suggest an ERCP.

• Unexplained upper abdominal pain
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes(Jaundice)
• Sudden weight loss
• Nausea and vomiting

Before The Procedure: Measures To Take

Before an ERCP, Dr. Indraneel Saha, a top gastroenterologist discusses the medical history of the patients and explains the treatment approach. Dr. Saha believes in educating his patients before any procedure, ensuring that are well informed, thereby reducing stress and leading to better outcomes. He advises his patients to prepare for the test.

1. Discuss your medications: Inform your doctor about the medicines you are taking, like prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and even any dietary supplements. If you are having any blood thinning tablets, that needs to be stopped until full recovery.
2. No heavy meals: Refrain from having any heavy meals at least 8 hours before the procedure. You are also not allowed to drink after midnight on the day of the test. Keeping the stomach is important to allow the doctor to visualise the abdomen more prominently and also to decrease the risk of vomiting.
3. Inform your medical history: Let your physician know about your medical history. If you have any underlying medical conditions or allergies, make sure to talk with him without any hesitation. Some patients are allergic to the dye used in the procedure, hence it is important to inform them about it to prevent other reactions.
4. Manage your chronic disorders: If you are suffering from diabetes or high blood pressure, you need to keep the conditions under check. If not so, you might experience some complications both before or after the surgery and delay the recovery period.
5. Take rest: Have someone who can drop you off at the clinic or hospital before an ERCP stone extraction. Too much stress or anxiety can lead to hormonal changes and increase your body temperature, resulting in disturbances in the recovery process. Also, you will be sedated during the procedure, so have someone or, arrange a ride to drive you home.

Wrapping Up

ERCP is completely a safe diagnostic test to relieve you of your gastrointestinal issues. You need to follow your doctor’s pre and post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth experience and a quick healing.

So, if you need an ERCP stone extraction, you can get in touch with Dr. Indraneel Saha, a top gastroenterologist who has years of experience in performing therapeutic procedures with exceptional care and outcomes.