ENDOSCOPIC RETROGRADE CHOLANGIOPANCREATOGRAPHY (ERCP) - RADIOGRAPHIC TECHNIQUE

The diagnostic value of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is fully exploited only if the radiographs obtained are of excellent quality. Careful attention to factors such as type of fluoroscopic equipment, small focal spot and adequate preliminary films are an important requisite. Using fluoroscopy to locate the ampullary region and to monitor the extent of filling of pancreatic and biliary ductal system during contrast injection speeds completion of the study and helps prevent complications. Performing ERCP with attention to patient positioning and awareness of possible need for delayed radiographs also enhances its diagnostic capability.