Authors

  1. Cotton, Peter B. MD, FRCP, FRCS

Abstract

Endoscopic Retrograde CholangioPancreatography (ERCP) is the most dangerous procedure performed regularly by gastroenterologists. While serious adverse events cannot all be avoided, there are many ways to reduce the risk of their resulting in a lawsuit. The most important is for the endoscopist to communicate carefully and fully with patients and family members before the procedure-providing truly informed consent-and afterwards, especially when there is a poor outcome.