Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatogram (ERCP)

Follow the instructions exactly about when to stop eating and drinking, or your test may be canceled. If your doctor has instructed you to take your medicines on the day of surgery, please do so using only a sip of water.

If your doctor prescribed antibiotics before the test, take them as directed. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.

Tell your doctor if you:

• Have hay fever, hives, food or medication allergies, or Reference asthma Opens New Window.
• Are allergic to shellfish (shrimp, scallops, lobster), the iodine used in the Reference contrast material Opens New Window for X-ray tests, or any other substance that contains iodine.
• Have had a digestive tract study that used barium, such as a Reference barium enema Opens New Window, within the last week.
• Are taking blood-thinning medicines, such as aspirin or warfarin (Coumadin).

Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have regarding the need for the test, its risks, how it will be done, or what the results will mean. To help you understand the importance of this test, fill out the medical test information form (What is a Reference PDF Opens New Window document?).

You will be asked to empty your bladder and remove any dentures, jewelry, or contact lenses before having an ERCP.

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