How to Prepare for Therapeutic ERCP in NJ

The Day Before Therapeutic ERCP

  • If you are taking Coumadin, Plavix, or Aspirin, it may need to be stopped prior to your procedure. Please ask your doctor. These medications are usually stopped several days before your procedure.
  • DO NOT have any solid food or dairy products after midnight the day before your procedure
  • Please make sure you have arranged ahead of time for a responsible adult (age 18 or over) to drive you home after the procedure.

The Day of Your Therapeutic ERCP Appointment

  • This procedure is performed at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset in Somerville,NJ.
  • DO NOT HAVE ANY SOLID FOODS or dairy products after midnight the day before your procedure.
  • You may have clear liquids until 4 HOURS before your procedure (water, broth, clear apple juice, coffee/tea (no milk), ginger ale, etc.)
  • After this time, NOTHING BY MOUTH including water, gum, candy or mints.
  • Depending on the indication(s) for the procedure, an antibiotic may be given during the procedure.
  • You may take your vital medications with a small sip of water.
  • You may brush your teeth.
  • Please arrive for your procedure promptly at your assigned arrival time.
  • Please make sure you have arranged ahead of time for a responsible adult (age 18 or over) to drive you home after the procedure.
  • If you are a diabetic, hold (do not take) your oral diabetic medication the morning of the colonoscopy. Take 1/2 of the insulin dose prior to the procedure. Use sugar free drinks for liquids during the prep to avoid increase in blood sugar. Monitor and control your blood sugar closely during your prep to prevent low and high blood sugar, Note: Your procedure may need to be canceled if your blood sugar is over 300mg/dl on arrival.
  • Wear comfortable, loose clothing such as a sweat suit.  No metal should be worn including underwire bras or zippers.  Leave all jewelry at home including belly rings & tongue piercings.
  • If you are a smoker, it is advised that you do not smoke at least 6 hours before the procedure.

After Your Therapeutic ERCP Appointment

  • You must arrange for a responsible adult (18 or over) to drive you home. Going home in a taxi is not allowed.
  • The effects of the anesthesia can persist for 24 hours. After receiving the sedation, you must exercise extreme caution before engaging in any activity that could be harmful to yourself or others (such as driving a car). Do not make any important decisions and do not drink any alcoholic beverages during this time period.
  • Take only the medication that is prescribed by your doctor.
  • After your procedure, you may have anything you’d like to eat or drink. You will probably want to start with something light. Please include plenty of fluids. Avoid items that cause gas such as sodas and salads.
  • If your procedure required the placement of a metal clip, you cannot have an MRI for 30 days.

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Therapeutic ERCP in New Jersey

At Digestive Healthcare Center, our team of compassionate, board-certified physicians will ensure that you fully understand all decisions made as part of your treatment plan, including Therapeutic ERCP if it is needed. Most of our gastroenterology procedures are performed at our Hillsborough office and surgical center, but we proudly see patients at all three of our office locations in NJ. If you have any questions about Therapeutic ERCP or the other services we provide, or to schedule an appointment, please contact us today.