The bile-duct bottleneck — gallstones or strictures stop bile flow, causing pain, fever or yellow eyes.

Why ERCP beats surgery — a side-viewing duodenoscope plus fluoroscopy equals incision-free access. Dr Chandu’s fellowship at AIMS honed cannulation skills that cut risk.

Step-by-step — deep cannulation → contrast cholangiogram → sphincterotomy → balloon sweep or basket → optional plastic/metal stent.

Safety pearls — rectal NSAID prevents pancreatitis; CO₂ insufflation lowers gas discomfort.

Recovery — 24 h observation, then low-fat diet for a week. Follow-up imaging in 3 months if stented.