Guest guest Posted December 28, 2001 Report Share Posted December 28, 2001 Here's some guidelines on ERCPs (based on my experience). Most people with this history are started on IV antibiotics prior to the procedure (it might be orally, but not in my experience). Follow instructions prior to procedure (usually nothing by mouth for 8 hours before, or nothing after midnight if morning procedure). You will be sedated for the procedure and should not remember anything past the injection. An hour is a good guess at the procedure length, but it depends what they do. If they need to dilate and stent, it may be much longer. I usually get sick on demoral, so I always ask for Fentanyl. The major risk appears to be pancreatitis. Other risks are the usual sedation risks, perforation of small bowel or stomach, etc. You might want to ask about there instrument cleaning procedures. There is data that shows many facilities do not do adequate sterilizing of these instruments. Pancreatitis is by far the most common. Of the 3 I've had, I ended up with pancreatitis two times. HOWEVER, I was septic those two times (fever, chills, etc.). The last one (for stent removal) was a piece of cake. You should not be given anything by mouth after the ERCP, until it is assured you will not get pancreatitis. For me, it was 6-10 hours after the procedure. Food makes the pancreatitis worse - the pain can easily reach 10/10. Good luck, and take care. If you have any more questions, be sure to ask. Arne 50 - UC 1977 - PSC 2000 Alive and (mostly) well in Minnesota > Hi, I've read what I could find about the ERCP. Can anyone tell me > about how long a procedure it is & possible risks??? I'm trying to > arrange my childcare etc. for Thurs. What should expect? > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.