Diagnostic and therapeutic use of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is an important investigative technique in the diagnosis of biliary tract and pancreatic disease. It can also be employed as a therapeutic tool in the management of these disorders. The indications, results and complications of 500 ERCPs performed in the Medical Gastro-enterology Unit, Johannesburg Hospital, over 30 months are reported. In addition, endoscopic therapeutic procedures including sphincterotomy, nasobiliary drainage, placement of bilioduodenal endoprostheses and balloon dilatation of bile duct strictures are highlighted.