Regular consultation with a doctor can help in identifying the right procedure to be done for patients who experienced sudden or erratic pains in the abdomen area. It is critical to take abdominal symptoms seriously. Many interconnected organs are present in this part of our body that may affect one another. If checked properly by a physician, they can pin point the exact body part with a problem for treatment. Early detection will prevent further damage to other organs and to immediately relieve severe pains encountered by the patient.

One of the procedures that can be done is Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). It is a complex medical procedure done to visually check and can be used both as diagnosis and treatment of certain organ conditions like the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, or issues with the digestive tract.

Here are some abdominal afflictions that, if properly diagnosed, can be proceeded to undergo ERCP procedure:

• A suspected abdominal cancer
• A blockage in the affected organ caused by a stone or mass
• Severe abdominal pain that cannot be established by other tests
• Jaundice or discoloration of the skin

Advices to Avoid ERCP Malpractice to Happen

Before going through an ERCP procedure, patients should consider the following in order for them to have peace of mind before, on, & after the procedure:

1. They should learn, understand, and know all about the procedure. How it is done and what will be the possible effects or complications that will occur if they undergo with this kind of treatment. Will it relieve them of the pain they are currently suffering and will it directly address the cause of the illness or just part of it?
2. They should ask the doctor who will do the procedure if he/she has done it before and if he is equipped with the proper training to do ERCP. Do background check on the medical history of the physician before going through and agreeing with them.
3. The risks to life and what is the mortality percentage base on previous studies with this type of endoscopy procedure.
4. What are other alternative methods aside from ERCP that can be done and that is also credible to give out correct diagnosis? If it is only applicable to do with their type of illness then the safer and less life-threatening method is a better way than loosing ones’ life as a result of a medical malpractice.
5. Get advice from your health care provider if your condition and if this type of procedure is covered and included in your insurance plan.
6. Know your legal rights. The patient should know that if there is a possible risk to their life if they proceed with this treatment method then they should consult and seek legal advice in order to prepare documents needed if something will go wrong after the procedure.