ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is a specialized procedure for diagnosing and treating bile duct and pancreatic conditions. Dr. Saini has advanced fellowship training in therapeutic ERCP from Mount Sinai/Beth Israel Medical Center in New York.
ERCP combines endoscopy and X-ray imaging to diagnose and treat conditions of the bile ducts and pancreatic duct
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is a highly specialized endoscopic procedure that allows your gastroenterologist to examine and treat problems in the bile ducts, gallbladder, and pancreatic duct — without surgery.
During ERCP, a thin, flexible endoscope is passed through the mouth and into the small intestine, where the bile and pancreatic ducts open. Using contrast dye and real-time X-ray, your doctor can identify blockages, stones, strictures, and other abnormalities — and often treat them in the same session.
Dr. Saini received specialized ERCP training at Mount Sinai / Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City under Dr. Jerome Siegel, one of the pioneers of therapeutic ERCP. This advanced fellowship training is rare and represents the highest level of expertise in this procedure.
Gallstones that have migrated into the common bile duct, causing pain, jaundice, or infection. ERCP can remove stones without surgery.
Narrowing of the bile duct from scarring, inflammation, or tumors. Stents can be placed during ERCP to restore bile flow.
When gallstones block the pancreatic duct causing pancreatitis, emergency ERCP can relieve the obstruction.
Leaks, strictures, and chronic pancreatitis complications that require specialized endoscopic intervention.
Bile leaks or strictures after gallbladder surgery or liver transplant that need endoscopic management.
Brushings and biopsies of suspicious bile duct or pancreatic lesions for cancer diagnosis.
Fellowship-trained in therapeutic ERCP at Mount Sinai/Beth Israel NYC. 28+ years experience. One of Orange County's most experienced ERCP specialists.
ERCP uses a specialized endoscope passed through the mouth to reach the bile and pancreatic ducts. Contrast dye and X-ray imaging allow the doctor to visualize the ducts and perform treatments like stone removal, stent placement, or tissue sampling — all without surgical incisions.
You receive sedation or general anesthesia during ERCP, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some patients experience mild bloating or sore throat afterward, which resolves within a day or two.
A diagnostic ERCP typically takes 30-60 minutes. Therapeutic procedures (stone removal, stent placement) may take longer depending on complexity. Plan for 3-4 hours total including preparation and recovery.
ERCP is generally safe but does carry some risks including pancreatitis (3-5% of cases), bleeding, infection, or perforation. Dr. Saini's extensive training and experience help minimize these risks. The benefits of treating the underlying condition typically outweigh the procedural risks.
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