How much does an ERCP cost privately in the UK? (2026)

A private ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) uses an endoscope and X-ray dye to examine and treat the bile and pancreatic ducts, mainly to remove gallstones from the bile duct or place a stent for a blockage.

A verified, published price for ERCP was not available to us, so we have left numbers out instead of estimating. The factors and questions below will help you read any quote you are given.

A side-viewing endoscope is passed to the duodenum, a thin tube enters the bile duct, and dye shows stones or narrowing on X-ray. Stones can be removed with a basket or balloon, and a stent placed if needed.

Because ERCP carries more risk than diagnostic tests, many centres use MRCP or EUS first. Ask why ERCP is the right test for you.

Several things move the cost of ERCP up or down. These are the ones worth asking about first.

• Therapeutic work: stone removal, sphincterotomy and stents each add equipment and time.

• Anaesthetic: often deeper sedation or general anaesthetic with an anaesthetist.

• Stay: some patients are observed overnight, particularly after treatment.

• Specialist team: ERCP needs experienced endoscopists and radiography support.

• Complication management: post-ERCP pancreatitis is a recognised risk that can prolong stay.

Quotes rarely list everything, so it helps to know what to look for. The table sets out typical inclusions and extras for this procedure.

Insurers usually cover ERCP when clinically indicated, with pre-authorisation, but may query diagnostic use because MRCP is non-invasive.

If you are using insurance, get pre-authorisation in writing before treatment and ask which fees your policy limits could leave uncovered. If you are paying yourself, some hospital groups offer medical finance subject to status; check the rate, term and total repayable before agreeing.

NHS ERCP is available in specialist centres and urgent cases such as infected bile ducts are prioritised.

In England the NHS aims to start non-urgent consultant-led treatment within 18 weeks of referral, and patients can ask to be offered alternative providers if that is likely to be exceeded. Actual waits vary by trust and specialty.

You stay for observation and avoid driving, with advice on pain or fever warning signs.

Few people need more than the planned care, but the cost position if they do is worth settling before treatment.

• Pancreatitis, bleeding and perforation are recognised risks and can mean a prolonged stay and extra cost; ask what is covered if this happens.

• A stent often needs replacing or removing later, creating a further procedure.

When you have two or three estimates, these questions help you see which is genuinely the better value.

• Is the quote diagnostic or therapeutic ERCP?

• Is an overnight stay included?

• What devices are included?

• What happens if I have a complication?

• Are professional fees and hospital charges shown as separate lines, and is the total a firm figure or an estimate?