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An endoscopy is a test that is used to literally look inside the body. The equipment used for this test is known as an endoscope. An endoscope has a lens and lighting equipment at one end. On the other end, one will find a viewing apparatus. Modern endoscopes are attached to computers which record the procedure and also display the image on a screen. This image can be frozen for a detailed check or review. Endoscopy procedures are usually conducted through the mouth or the anus when they deal with the digestive system.
The ERCP test is the abbreviation of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography. The ERCP test uses an endoscope to access the areas of the upper small intestine known as the duodenum. The purpose of the ERCP test is to check for problems and blockages in the bile ducts and in the pancreas. The gall bladder and the pancreas both release digestive enzymes that are used to help with the processing and absorption of food.
ERCP testing has to be done on an empty stomach which is why fasting for at least 8 hours before the test is recommended. The endoscope will then be inserted through the mouth and passed down the esophagus, through the stomach and into the duodenum. An anesthetic will be used to numb the throat to ensure that the individual does not choke or gag on the endoscope. A special catheter is then inserted to help manipulate the areas that are being checked. The openings of the bile duct and pancreas will be examined. The catheter may also be used to insert a dye which will be useful for further inspection under X-ray or CT scanning.
The ERCP test is used to check for all sorts of problems associated with the pancreas and the bile ducts. Blockages, inflammations and abnormal tumors can all be checked when using this test.
The ERCP test is conducted in a clinic with emergency medical equipment at hand. The patient will feel some discomfort when the scope has reached the stomach. In some cases, air is used to inflate the intestines or the stomach. The patient may therefore feel like he or she has gas when the procedure is being conducted and when it is over. The throat will remain sore for a period of up to one week from the procedure being conducted.
The ERCP test results will be used to figure out what is causing the symptoms of the patient. In the case of blockages, the ERCP test may be used to clear out the blocks, thus curing the problem.
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