Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Side Effects and Warnings

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have an ERCP, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

• Damage to the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or bile duct
• Pancreatitis (irritation of the pancreas)
• Infection
• Bleeding

Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• History of problems with ERCP
• Bleeding disorders
• Abnormal anatomy
• Pregnancy
• Poor overall health

Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following Occurs

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Signs of infection, including fever and chills
• Nausea and/or vomiting or vomiting blood
• You develop severe abdominal pain
• You pass black, tar-like stools or have bloody stools

In case of an emergency, CALL 911.