We recommend ERCP because it is a simpler and safer method than standard surgery. However, you should be aware that it is not always successful and it can also induce complications, since each examination, or interference with the human body, represents a certain risk.
Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas, the organ which lies behind your stomach) occurs after ERCP in 3-5% of patients (about one in thirty to one in twenty subjects). If it comes to this, the inflammation is usually mild and causes abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting, which subside within a few days of hospitalization. Very rarely, pancreatitis is so severe that it presents a serious and life-threatening complication.
- The endoscope and other instruments can tear or puncture the examined tissues and organs. This is a serious, but fortunately a very rare complication that may require surgery.
- The bleeding which may occur after the biopsy or cutting the papilla, is usually minimal and ceases quickly, by itself, or it can be stopped endoscopically; it rarely requires surgery.
- Food or liquids may accidentally get into the lungs (aspiration), which can lead to pneumonia. Preoperative fasting significantly reduces the risk.Infection of bile ducts (cholangitis) is a rare complication, which may require a prolonged antibiotic treatment, or even another ERCP or other surgical procedure.
- Potential adverse reactions to medications that are used during surgery (sedatives, painkillers, antibiotics, etc.). Before the procedure, the doctor will ask you whether you may be allergic to any medication, and whether you may have health problems with heart, lungs, kidney or liver. Knowing this information will allow for a safer procedure.
- Medications can also cause a local irritation at the site of venipuncture (the site of puncture into a vein) or intravenous line. If there is any redness, swelling, or fever, the inflammation can be alleviated by cataplasms.
In the coming months or years, the problems seldom re-occur. You may develop jaundice, fever or newly formed gallstones in the bile duct. Usually, these complications can be resolved by another endoscopic procedure.
The stents (endoprosthesis, tubes) can become clogged only after a few months. This will cause another jaundice episode, usually accompanied by hypothermia. If this happens, contact your doctor as soon as possible. You will need an antibiotic and will need to consider a stent replacement.