Services

• Diagnostic Upper GI Endoscopy, Gastroscopy
• Diagnostic Lower GI Endoscopy, Colonoscopy
• Diagnostic Enteroscopy

Therapeutic Upper GI Endoscopy

• Esophageal Stricture Dilatation
• Esophageal Variceal Band Ligation
• Esophageal Polyp Removal
• Gastric Variceal Glue Injection
• APC for Gastric Telangiectasias
• Peptic Ulcer Disease Endoscopic Treatment
• Foreign Body Removal
• Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy
• Balloon Dilatation for Gastro Outlet Obstruction
• Esophageal Metal Stenting for Advanced Malignancy
• Gastric and Duodenal Stenting for Advanced Malignancy
• Endoscopic Bariatric Balloon Placement

Therapeutic Lower GI Endoscopy (Colonoscopy)

• Colonoscopic Polypectomy
• Colonic Balloon Dilatation
• Colonic Decompression for Colonic Psuedo Obstruction

Interventional ERCP

• Removal of Bile and Pancreatic Duct Stones
• Pancreatic and Bile Duct Stenting
• Intraductal Cholangio-Pancreatoscopy for Large Bile Duct and Pancreatic Duct Stones

Interventional EUS

• Diagnosis and staging of Malignancy, Tissue Diagnosis by FNAC / FNAB
• Pancreatic and Bile Duct Drainage
• Pancreatic Fluid Collection Drainage

Third Space Endoscopy

• POEM
• Endoscopic Mucosal Resection
• Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection

Removal of Bile and Pancreatic Duct Stones

Stones in the bile duct or pancreatic duct can cause significant discomfort and lead to serious complications such as pain, jaundice, pancreatitis, or infection. These stones can often be removed through a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure called ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography).

What are bile and pancreatic duct stones?

• Bile duct stones (choledocholithiasis) are usually formed in the gallbladder and migrate into the bile duct.
• Pancreatic duct stones are typically associated with chronic pancreatitis and can block the flow of pancreatic enzymes.

Both types of stones can obstruct normal digestion, cause pain and inflammation, and may lead to infections or other complications if not treated.

Symptoms may include:

• Upper abdominal pain (often severe)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Fever and chills (if infection develops)
• Dark urine or pale stools

How are the stones removed?

The gold-standard procedure is ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography):

• A flexible endoscope is passed through the mouth to the small intestine.
• A small catheter is guided into the bile or pancreatic duct.
• Contrast dye is injected to visualize the stones on X-ray.
• A sphincterotomy (tiny cut) may be performed to open the duct.
• Stones are then removed using special tools like balloons or baskets.
• If needed, a temporary stent is placed to ensure drainage.

Advantages of ERCP stone removal:

• Minimally invasive (no surgery)
• Quick recovery
• Provides immediate symptom relief
• Can be combined with stenting or biopsy if necessary

Is it safe?

Yes, ERCP is generally a safe and effective procedure when done by an experienced gastroenterologist. Rare risks include pancreatitis, bleeding, or infection, which are typically manageable.

What to expect after the procedure:

• Most patients go home the same or next day.
• You may be advised to rest and follow a light diet for 24–48 hours.
• Your doctor will guide you about gallbladder removal if needed to prevent future stone formation.

Timely removal of bile and pancreatic duct stones prevents complications and restores normal digestive function.