ercp best docs usa

Lor in 6/02 mentioned there were 5 0r 6 places her doc mentioned to her that were experts in the ercp.

also my symptoms are a slightly elevated lipase 73 but i have had nausea for  6 weeks.  the only thing helping me so far are raw chinese herbs that I boil and then drink the tea.  my ultasound, mri, super cat scan(can't remember what kind) and hida scan were said to be normal.  However, the small bowel took 2 hrs and 15 min to show up in the hidascan and only after a drink of apple juice.
No one can figure out what is wrong with me  however, somedays I am perfectly normal with no nausea.  I have stayed on a restrictive diet...broth, rice chicken  poached fish..have cheated with a bite of meat ...i do not have pain only the nausea and some bloating.

One of my docs think I may have lyme disease and this could be an inflammation from that.

Where I live there are not many docs that do ercp and I don't even know if I should venture to have this test

thanks...someone please reply  mj6962

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The ERCP is a comprehensive test that can examine the biliary tree.  If there is suspicion of any blockages, the ERCP would be an appropriate test.  The one major side effect from the test would be pancreatitis.

Another option would be an MRCP.  This is an MRI-based study that can also visualize the biliary tree.  The disadvantage is that if there is a stone or blockage, an ERCP would be needed anyways to treat the blockage.  

I would obtain another opinion, preferably at a major academic medical center.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com