- 3304 Colorado Blvd, Suite 202, Denton, TX 76210
- Serving Denton · Lewisville · Coppell
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ERCP for Bile Duct & Pancreatic Disorders in Denton, TX
Advanced endoscopic care to remove bile duct stones, relieve blockages and treat pancreatic duct problems, often without open surgery.
What Is ERCP?
Advanced Treatment for the Bile and Pancreatic Ducts
ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) combines endoscopy with X-ray imaging to diagnose and treat problems in the bile ducts and pancreatic duct. A specialized endoscope is guided to the opening where these ducts drain into the small intestine.
Dr. Awan performs ERCP at affiliated hospitals including Medical City Denton, Medical City Lewisville and Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton.
- Removes gallstones that have moved into the bile duct
- Places stents to open narrowed or blocked ducts
- Collects tissue samples (brushings) for diagnosis
- Often avoids the need for open surgery
Conditions Treated with ERCP
ERCP is used when imaging tests or symptoms suggest a problem in the bile or pancreatic ducts.
Bile Duct Stones
Removal of gallstones blocking the common bile duct.
Jaundice
Yellowing of the skin or eyes caused by a blocked bile duct.
Strictures
Narrowing of the bile or pancreatic ducts from scarring, inflammation or tumors.
Gallstone Pancreatitis
Clearing stones that trigger inflammation of the pancreas.
Bile Leaks
Stent placement to help leaks heal, such as after gallbladder surgery.
Suspected Tumors
Sampling tissue and placing stents to relieve blockage from pancreatic or bile duct tumors.
Your ERCP, Step by Step
ERCP is performed in a hospital setting by an experienced therapeutic endoscopist.
- PreparationFast as instructed and review your medications, especially blood thinners. Dr. Awan explains the benefits and risks in advance.
- The ProcedureYou receive sedation or anesthesia. ERCP typically takes 30 to 90 minutes depending on the treatment needed.
- RecoveryYou are monitored after the procedure. Some patients stay overnight for observation.
- Follow-UpDr. Awan reviews the results and plans any follow-up, such as stent removal or exchange.
Why ERCP Is Done by a Specialist
ERCP is one of the most technically advanced procedures in gastroenterology. It requires specialized training and experience to perform safely and effectively.
Treating Bile Duct Stones
Gallstones can slip out of the gallbladder and block the bile duct, causing pain, jaundice, infection or pancreatitis. During ERCP, a small cut can be made in the duct opening (sphincterotomy) and stones are removed with a balloon or basket.
Relieving Blockages with Stents
When a duct is narrowed by scarring or a tumor, a plastic or metal stent can be placed to restore drainage. This often relieves jaundice and itching quickly.
Understanding the Risks
Like any procedure, ERCP has risks, including pancreatitis, bleeding, infection and perforation. Dr. Awan will discuss your individual risks and benefits so you can make an informed decision.
ERCP FAQs
Is ERCP done in the office?
No. ERCP is performed in a hospital, where X-ray equipment and anesthesia support are available.
How long does ERCP take?
Most ERCP procedures take between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on what treatment is required.
Will I stay in the hospital after ERCP?
Many patients go home the same day. Some stay overnight for observation, especially if they were already hospitalized or need further care.
What are the risks of ERCP?
Possible complications include pancreatitis, bleeding, infection and, rarely, perforation. Dr. Awan will review these with you before the procedure.
Talk to Our Team
- Call (940) 243-0912
- Mon – Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- 6 locations in Denton & Coppell
Request an Appointment
Questions About ERCP?
Talk with an experienced gastroenterologist about bile duct and pancreatic conditions. Call our office today.