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1. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is primarily a therapeutic procedure.
2. Diagnostic ERCP should not be undertaken in the absence of objective findings of obstruction from other imaging modalities.
3. ERCP is recommended for: a. Post-operative biliary leaks or strictures.b. Acute or chronic pancreatitis.c. Palliation of malignant biliary obstruction.d. Pancreatic duct stones or leaks.e. Drainage of pancreatic pseudocysts.f. Diagnosis of pancreatic malignancies.
4. ERCP is not recommended prior to routine laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
5. ERCP is safe in children and pregnancy.
From: Baron TH, Davila RE, Egan J, et al. ASGE guideline: the role of ERCP in diseases of the biliary tract and pancreas. Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. 2005;62(1). (Practice Guideline)
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