ERCP

[Guest guest]

Toni,

You wrote, " I am scheduled to have an ERCP on Wednesday. I am very nervous,

and wondered for those of you who have had ERCP induced pancreatitis how soon

did you know? Also I slept through the entire procedure, but is that always

the case? "

I am sorry to hear that you have anxiety about the upcoming ERCP, but

certainly understand why you do. It sounds like you have a very competent GI /

pancreatologist who understands how important it si to take caution when

performing the ERCP. Everyone is entirely different in their response to the

ERCP, so

remember that when reading responses. In my particular case, I was in so

much pain prior to the ERCP, I could not tell the difference between pre and

post ERCP pain status. That may be different if you have been at ho me and not

experiencing an acute exacerbation of pancreatitis at the time of the ERCP.

Regarding 'sleeping through the ERCP,' it was emphasized recently that the

anesthesia used for the ERCP is called " Conscious Sedation. " The reason fro

this is that you have to be able to follow commands during the procedure so the

GI / pancreatologist can have you do certain things, like turn, swallow, etc.

The versed is given in hopes you do not remember the experience, as it si

uncomfortable. Many people do report that they wake up during the procedure,

and if this is a fear, be sure and verbalize this to your GI / nurse

anesthetist.(sp?)

Toni, I forgot where you live? It may be possible to have a hospital

visitation committee member visit you at the hospital.

Karyn E. , RN

Executive Director, PAI

Indianapolis, Indiana