If gallstones, blockages, or pancreatic issues are causing abdominal pain or jaundice, ERCP offers diagnosis and treatment—and DPC ensures this complex procedure is managed with expertise and personalized attention.
ERCP combines endoscopy and X-rays to:
Remove gallstones from bile ducts.
Place stents for strictures or tumors.
Biopsy suspicious lesions.
Treat pancreatitis (sphincterotomy).
Performed under sedation, it’s a 30–60 minute outpatient procedure.
Key facts for patients:
Uses: Treats cholangitis, biliary leaks, pancreatic duct obstructions.
Safety: Low-risk; pancreatitis (3–5%) or bleeding (1–2%) may occur.
Costs: Traditional clinics charge 5,000–10,000 USD; DPC reduces fees through bundled care.
Risks of delayed ERCP:
Sepsis from untreated cholangitis.
Liver damage from prolonged obstruction.
Direct Primary Care (DPC) replaces fragmented GI care with coordinated, patient-first support.
Same-day imaging: Fast-track MRCP or CT to confirm bile duct issues.
Gastroenterologist collaboration: Partner with ERCP specialists for urgent cases.
Pre-op optimization: Adjust blood thinners, manage coagulopathies.
All-inclusive pricing: Membership covers pre-op labs, procedure, and follow-ups.
Reduced fees: DPC patients save 2,000–5,000 USD through self-pay rates.
Alternative options: Discuss PTBD (percutaneous drainage) if ERCP isn’t feasible.
24/7 access: Address post-ERCP pain, fever, or jaundice immediately.
Custom aftercare: Prescribe pancreatic enzymes, advise on diet (low-fat).
Preventive care: Schedule MRCPs to monitor stent patency or stone recurrence.
Case 1: Maria, 55, with gallstone pancreatitis
Maria’s DPC team performed ERCP with sphincterotomy, preventing recurrence.
Case 2: John, 60, with cholangiocarcinoma
John’s DPC provider placed a biliary stent via ERCP, relieving jaundice pre-chemo.
Q: How do I prepare for ERCP?
A: Fast 6–8 hours; DPC adjusts diabetes meds and blood thinners.
Q: Will I need antibiotics?
A: Prophylactic antibiotics given if cholangitis suspected.
Q: Can ERCP remove gallbladder stones?
A: No—ERCP clears bile ducts; cholecystectomy needed for gallbladder.
Q: What if pancreatitis occurs post-ERCP?
A: DPC coordinates IV fluids, pain control, and hospital admission if severe.
The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) emphasizes timely ERCP. DPC delivers by:
Slashing wait times: 90% of patients undergo ERCP within 48 hours vs. 1+ week traditionally.
Reducing complications: Prophylactic rectal NSAIDs cut pancreatitis risk by 50%.
Cutting costs: Members save 3,000–7,000 USD through bundled care and fewer readmissions.
ERCP isn’t just a procedure—it’s a lifeline for your liver and pancreas. With DPC, you gain a partner who ensures rapid diagnostics, expert intervention, and attentive follow-up. No insurance delays, no fragmented care—just compassionate expertise that keeps your digestive system flowing smoothly.
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