Patient guide · Aftercare
ERCP is an advanced procedure used to treat problems in the bile ducts and pancreas — clearing stones, relieving blockages, and placing stents without open surgery. Most people recover smoothly. This guide explains what's normal, and the warning signs that need prompt attention.
During ERCP, a specialised endoscope was guided to where the bile duct and pancreatic duct drain into the bowel. Using X-ray guidance, Dr. Maaz diagnosed and treated the problem — for example removing a stone, opening a narrowing, or placing a small tube (stent) to keep the duct draining. Dr. Maaz will have explained what was found and done in your case.
ERCP is generally safe, but complications can occur and are treatable when acted on early. Contact the clinic or go to the nearest emergency department right away if you have:
• Severe or worsening tummy pain, especially with nausea or vomiting (can signal pancreas inflammation)
• Fever or chills (possible bile-duct infection)
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin, or dark urine returning
• Vomiting blood, or black, tarry stools (possible bleeding)
• Difficulty breathing, chest pain, or a hard, swollen abdomen
Don't wait to see if it passes — these are the signs we specifically want to catch early.
For anything urgent, call the clinic on +92 51 8464646 or attend the Shifa International Hospital emergency department. If you were given a specific after-hours or ward number, use that.
Stents are commonly used to keep a duct open. Some are temporary and planned for removal or exchange after a set time; others may pass on their own. It's important you understand your specific plan — if unsure whether or when your stent needs attention, contact the clinic. A stent left in too long can block and cause infection, so the follow-up genuinely matters.
Most people feel much better within a day or two. Tiredness from sedation passes quickly, and any sore throat settles within a couple of days.
Many return the next day, though it depends on what was done and how you feel. Avoid anything strenuous on the day itself because of the sedation.
Mild, settling upper-abdominal discomfort and bloating can be normal. What is not normal is severe or worsening pain, fever, or vomiting — those need urgent review as above.
If you have been advised to undergo ERCP, EUS, cholangioscopy or another advanced endoscopic procedure and you live outside Islamabad, your reports and imaging can often be reviewed before you travel.
Send them on WhatsApp, then book an online consultation to go through them together. That is where it is decided whether the procedure is appropriate, what further evaluation may be needed first, and what the next steps in your management should be.
WhatsApp: 03459116675. Reports are reviewed ahead of the consultation; management is decided during it.
Don't hesitate to reach out — early advice is always better.
This guide provides general information only and does not replace personal medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions given to you by Dr. Maaz and the clinic. In an emergency, or for any of the warning signs above, contact Shifa International Hospital or your nearest emergency department without delay.