Cholestasis is a condition in which the bile outlet is blocked inside or outside the liver, allowing bile to seep into the bloodstream, causing jaundice. If the root cause of obstructive jaundice is a malignancy, the best and long-term outcome for the patient is surgical removal of the tumor.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is performed by a gastroenterologist or surgeon who has specialized training in the technique. The bronchoscope is a long, flexible tube with a light and camera on the end. Because the procedure involves sedation or general anesthesia, the patient will be consulted by an anesthesiologist before the procedure.