Risk factors for complications after performance of ERCP

Prevention of postendoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis: the endoscopic technique

Pancreatitis is the most frequent and distressing complication of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Many recent studies have reported the use of pharmacological agents to reduce post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP); however, the most effective agents have not been established. Reduction in the incidence of PEP in high-risk patients has been reported through specific cannulation techniques such as guide wire-assisted cannulation and the use of pancreatic stents. The present review focuses on ERCP techniques for the prevention of PEP.

Early precut sphincterotomy and the risk of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography related complications: An updated meta-analysis

AIM

To study the cannulation and complication rates of early pre-cut sphincterotomy vs persistent attempts at cannulation by standard approach.

METHODS

Systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for relevant studies published up to February 2013. The main outcome measurements were cannulation rates and post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) complications. A comprehensive systematic search of the Cochrane library, PubMed, Google scholar, Scopus, National Institutes of Health, meta-register of controlled trials and published proceedings from major Gastroenterology journals and meetings until February 2013 was conducted using keywords. All Prospective randomized controlled trials (RCT) studies which met our inclusion criteria were included in the analysis. Prospective non-randomized studies and retrospective studies were excluded from our meta-analysis. The main outcomes of interest were post-ERCP pancreatitis, overall complication rates including cholangitis, ERCP-related bleeding, perforation and cannulation success rates.

RESULTS

Seven RCTs with a total of 1039 patients were included in the meta-analysis based on selection criteria. The overall cannulation rate was 90% in the pre-cut sphincterotomy vs 86.3% in the persistent attempts group (OR = 1.98; 95%CI: 0.70-5.65). The risk of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) was not different between the two groups (3.9% in the pre-cut sphincterotomy vs 6.1% in the persistent attempts group, OR = 0.58, 95%CI: 0.32-1.05). Similarly, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups for overall complication rate including PEP, cholangitis, bleeding, and perforation (6.2% vs 6.9%, OR = 0.85, 95%CI: 0.51-1.41).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis suggests that pre-cut sphincterotomy and persistent attempts at cannulation are comparable in terms of overall complication rates. Early pre-cut implementation does not increase PEP complications.

Risk factors for post-ERCP pancreatitis: a systematic review of clinical trials with a large sample size in the past 10 years

BACKGROUND

Post- endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP) is the most common and most severe complication associated with diagnostic and therapeutic ERCP. A multivariate analysis of risk factors for PEP is essential for identifying patients at high risk and subsequently choosing other suitable diagnoses.

METHODS

Pertinent publications were identified through systematic searches of MEDLINE, Elsevier, and Springer; we performed a systematic review of 12 clinical studies published in the past ten years, selected out of 451 reviewed articles, in which risk factors for pancreatitis were identified. Seven probable risk factors were evaluated, and outcomes expressed in the case of dichotomous variables, as an odds ratio (OR) (with a 95% confidence interval, 95% CI).

RESULTS

When the risk factors were analyzed, the OR for female gender was 1.40 (95% CI 1.24 to 1.58); the OR for previous PEP was 3.23 (95% CI 2.48 to 4.22); the OR for previous pancreatitis was 2.00 (95% CI 1.72 to 2.33); the OR for endoscopic sphincterotomy was 1.42 (95% CI 1.14 to 1.78); the OR for precut sphincterotomy was 2.11 (95% CI 1.72 to 2.59); the OR for Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction was 4.37 (95% CI 3.75 to 5.09); and the OR for non-prophylactic pancreatic duct stent was 2.10 (95% CI 1.63 to 2.69).

CONCLUSIONS

It appears that female gender, previous PEP, previous pancreatitis, endoscopic sphincterotomy, precut sphincterotomy, Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction, and non-prophylactic pancreatic duct stent are the risk factors for post-ERCP pancreatitis.

Association of procedure length on outcomes and adverse events of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this study were to determine the effects of length of procedure on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) outcomes and adverse events.

METHODS

All ERCP procedures, performed by experienced advanced endoscopists, in patients without prior papillary intervention from 2006 to 2008 were reviewed. Procedures were arbitrarily divided into two groups: shorter procedures (SP), with a duration shorter than the overall mean procedure length, and longer procedures (LP), with a duration longer than overall mean procedure length. Length of procedure was defined as the time from endoscope insertion to endoscope removal.

RESULTS

Two hundred and ninety-five procedures were included in the analysis. Mean procedure length was 45.6 ± 30.1 min. One hundred and seventy-seven procedures (60%) were SP and 118 (40%) were LP. There were no differences between the groups with regard to patients' ages, genders, race, or trainee participation. SP cases were more likely to be biliary vs pancreatic or bi-ductal evaluations (P = 0.03). LP had significantly higher complexity scores (34% with >3 vs 13%; P = 0.046) and were more likely to require pre-cut papillotomy (39% vs 15%; P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the groups in overall completion rates (91.5% LP vs 96% SP; P = 0.10) or adverse events (10.2% LP vs 6.2% SP; P = 0.21). However, LP cases were associated with higher rates of post-ERCP bleeding (4.2% vs 0.6%; P = 0.029).

CONCLUSION

There was no significant difference in outcomes or overall adverse events between shorter and longer ERCP procedures. However, longer procedures were associated with higher procedure complexity, higher utilization of pre-cut technique, and increased risk of bleeding.

Post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography complications in liver transplanted patients, a single-center experience

BACKGROUND

Complications in the biliary tract occur in 5%-30% after liver transplantation and the main part of the complications is successfully managed with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography (ERCP). The incidence and risk factors for post-ERCP complications in liver transplantation patients are not well described. Our objective was to define the frequency of post-ERCP complications in liver transplantation patients at the Abdominal Center, Rigshospitalet, the only Liver Transplantation Center in Denmark.

METHODS

Retrospective study of all ERCPs performed in liver transplantation patients during a 9-year period.

RESULTS

A total of 292 ERCPs were included. Overall post-ERCP complications occurred in 24 procedures (8.2%): pancreatitis in 8 (2.7%), bleeding in 5 (1.7%), and cholangitis in 13 (4.5%) procedures. Simultaneous pancreatitis and cholangitis, and simultaneous bleeding and cholangitis occurred after two procedures, respectively. Multivariate analysis concerning overall complications identified biliary sphincterotomy (p = 0.006) and time since liver transplantation within 90 days postoperatively (p = 0.044) as risk factors for post-ERCP complications. Specifically concerning post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP), it was found that pre-ERCP cholangitis was another independent risk factor for PEP (p = 0.026). Stent in the biliary tract prior to ERCP seemed to be protective (p = 0.041).

CONCLUSIONS

Complications were of surprisingly mild degree. The rates of post-ERCP complications in our study were in line with previous studies with liver transplantation patients. Cholangitis prior to ERCP may be another risk factor for post-ERCP pancreatitis.

Effect of precut sphincterotomy on post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM: To conduct a systemic review and meta-analysis to investigate the role of early precut technique. Multiple randomized controlled trails (RCTs) have reported conflicting results of the early precut sphincterotomy.

METHODS: MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Database of Systematic Reviews, and recent abstracts from major conference proceedings were searched (June 2013). Randomized and non-randomized studies comparing early precut technique with prolonged standard methods were included. Pooled estimates of post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP), cannulation and adverse events were analyzed by using odds ratio (OR). Random and fixed effects models were used as appropriate. Publication bias was assessed by funnel plots. Heterogeneity among studies was assessed by calculating I² measure of inconsistency.

RESULTS: Seven randomized and seven non-randomized trials met inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis of RCTs showed a decrease trend for PEP with early precut sphincterotomy but was not statistically significant (OR = 0.58; 95%CI: 0.32-1.05; P = 0.07). No heterogeneity was noted among the studies with I² of 0%.

CONCLUSION: Early precut technique for common bile duct cannulation decreases the trend of post-ERCP pancreatitis.

Safety of early transpancreatic duct precut during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

AIM: To explore the effectiveness and safety of early transpancreatic duct precut in achieving cannulation of the common bile duct.

METHODS: One hundred and twelve patients who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) from October 2011 to August 2013 were randomly assigned into two groups (at a 1:3 ratio). Group A underwent precut immediately after first cannulation with guidewire sliding into the pancreatic duct, and group B underwent standard cannulation attempts for a total of 15 min. If successful cannulation of the common bile duct was achieved within this time and with the pancreatic duct inserted less than 5 times, patients were included in the subgroup B1; otherwise, a precut procedure was carried out, and the patients were included in the subgroup B2. The success rate of biliary cannulation, mean cannulation time, mean x-ray exposure time, procedure-related complication rate and risk factors for post-ERCP pancreatitis were compared among the groups.

RESULTS: The mean cannulation time and mean X-ray exposure time in group A were significantly lower than those in group B2 (7.9 min vs 16.9, 5.8 min vs 10.4 min, P < 0.05 for both).There were no significant differences between the two groups in the cannulation rates, but the post-ERCP pancreatitis rate was higher in group B2 than in group A (26.9% vs 3.4%, P = 0.02). Multivariate analysis indicated that risk factors for post-ERCP pancreatitis were more than 10 minutes of biliary cannulation attempts and more than 2 times of cannulation of the pancreatic duct.

CONCLUSION: Early transpancreatic duct precut is safe and effective during ERCP.

Sequential algorithm analysis to facilitate selective biliary access for difficult biliary cannulation in ERCP: a prospective clinical study

Background

Numerous clinical trials to improve the success rate of biliary access in difficult biliary cannulation (DBC) during ERCP have been reported. However, standard guidelines or sequential protocol analysis according to different methods are limited in place. We planned to investigate a sequential protocol to facilitate selective biliary access for DBC during ERCP.

Methods

This prospective clinical study enrolled 711 patients with naïve papillae at a tertiary referral center. If wire-guided cannulation was deemed to have failed due to the DBC criteria, then according to the cannulation algorithm early precut fistulotomy (EPF; cannulation time > 5 min, papillary contacts > 5 times, or hook-nose-shaped papilla), double-guidewire cannulation (DGC; unintentional pancreatic duct cannulation ≥ 3 times), and precut after placement of a pancreatic stent (PPS; if DGC was difficult or failed) were performed sequentially. The main outcome measurements were the technical success, procedure outcomes, and complications.

Results

Initially, a total of 140 (19.7%) patients with DBC underwent EPF (n = 71) and DGC (n = 69). Then, in DGC group 36 patients switched to PPS due to difficulty criteria. The successful biliary cannulation rate was 97.1% (136/140; 94.4% [67/71] with EPF, 47.8% [33/69] with DGC, and 100% [36/36] with PPS; P < 0.001). The mean successful cannulation time (standard deviation) was 559.4 (412.8) seconds in EPF, 314.8 (65.2) seconds in DGC, and 706.0 (469.4) seconds in PPS (P < 0.05). The DGC group had a relatively low successful cannulation rate (47.8%) but had a shorter cannulation time compared to the other groups due to early switching to the PPS method in difficult or failed DGC. Post-ERCP pancreatitis developed in 14 (10%) patients (9 mild, 1 moderate), which did not differ significantly among the groups (P = 0.870) or compared with the conventional group (P = 0.125).

Conclusions

Based on the sequential protocol analysis, EPF, DGC, and PPS may be safe and feasible for DBC. The use of EPF in selected DBC criteria, DGC in unintentional pancreatic duct cannulations, and PPS in failed or difficult DGC may facilitate successful biliary cannulation.

Prophylactic pancreatic stent placement and post-ERCP pancreatitis: an updated meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Pancreatitis is one of the most frequent post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) complications. Previous meta-analyses show that prophylactic pancreatic stent (PS) placement after ERCP is beneficial for the prevention of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP). However, the results of these meta-analyses are controversial due to the limited sample size of the eligible studies, in which six additional randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are not included. Our aim is, therefore, to update the current meta-analyses regarding PS placement for prevention of PEP.

METHODS

We conducted a meta-analysis to identify RCTs comparing PS placement and the subsequent incidence of PEP. The primary outcome was the incidence of PEP.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies were enrolled in this meta-analysis. Of the 1,541 patients, 760 patients received a PS and 781 patients were allocated to the control group. PS placement was associated with a statistically significant reduction of PEP [relative risk (RR) 0.39; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.29-0.53; P < 0.001]. Subgroup analysis stratified according to the severity of PEP showed that a PS was beneficial in patients with mild to moderate PEP (RR 0.45; 95 % CI 0.32-0.62; P < 0.001) and in patients with severe PEP (RR 0.26; 95 %CI 0.09-0.76; P = 0.01). In addition, subgroup analysis performed according to patient selection demonstrated that PS placement was effective for both high-risk and mixed case groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis showed that PS placement prevented PEP after ERCP as compared with no PS placement. We therefore recommend PS placement after ERCP for the prevention of PEP.

Endoscopic duodenal perforation: surgical strategies in a regional centre

BACKGROUND

Duodenal perforation is an uncommon complication of endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP) and a rare complication of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Most are minor perforations that settle with conservative management. A few perforations however result in life-threatening retroperitoneal necrosis and require surgical intervention. There is a relative paucity of references specifically describing the surgical interventions required for this eventuality.

METHODS

Five cases of iatrogenic duodenal perforation were ascertained between 2002 and 2007 at Cairns Base Hospital. Clinical features were analyzed and compared, with reference to a review of ERCP at that institution for the years 2005/2006.

RESULTS

One patient recovered with conservative management. Of the other four, one died after initial laparotomy. The other three survived, undergoing multiple procedures and long inpatient stays.

CONCLUSIONS

Iatrogenic duodenal perforation with retroperitoneal necrosis is an uncommon complication of endoscopy, but when it does occur it is potentially life-threatening. Early recognition may lead to a better outcome through earlier intervention, although a protracted course with multiple procedures should be anticipated. A number of surgical techniques may need to be employed according to the individual circumstances of the case.

Biliary sphincterotomy is not required for bile duct stent placement

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to assess the success and outcome of bile duct stent placement without the use of endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy (EBS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Over a period of 10 years and 9 months, all patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) were prospectively identified. Bile duct stent placement was routinely done without EBS unless additional therapy (stone removal, multiple stenting) was anticipated.

RESULTS

Of 5020 patients who underwent ERCP, bile duct stents were placed in 1668 patients. After excluding those requiring additional endoscopic therapy, 1112 patients (89.5%) had ERCP and stent placement without a sphincterotomy and 130 patients (10.5%) had ERCP and stent placement with asphincterotomy. Deployed endoprostheses were self-expandable metallic stents in 15.7% and plastic in 77.5%. Caliber of plastic stents was 10 Fr in 78.9% and <10 Fr in 21.1%. All stents were successfully placed in these 1112 patients without the need for EBS. Comparing patients undergoing bile duct stenting with and without sphincterotomy, no difference was seen in rates of pancreatitis (1.54% vs 2.07%, P > 0.9999).

CONCLUSION

Single bile duct stents, both plastic and metal, can be deployed without EBS.

Complications of ERCP

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is performed commonly for therapy. Its role in pancreaticobiliary diagnostic imaging has significantly decreased over time. Despite advances in our knowledge of the risk factors, complications, (especially post-ERCP pancreatitis), remain a significant problem. This review highlights the risk factors as related to the patient, procedure and the endoscopist, and the possible means to prevent complications. The best way to avoid any complication is "to avoid any procedure where the indication is not strong" and especially to refrain from doing diagnostic ERCP when alternate noninvasive imaging such as magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography is available.

Evaluation of early precut with needle-knife in difficult biliary cannulation during ERCP

BACKGROUND

There is scarce information on whether performing the precut procedure early rather than after several cannulation attempts is associated with different success and complication rates.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this retrospective study was is to compare the early precut technique with the standard one in terms of the results and complications.

METHODS

The contemporary success rate and postoperative complications in 792 endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography cases were frequently observed during the period from June 2007 to May 2011, and 56 of these cases were carried out with precut biliary sphincterotomy after the standard sphincterotomy had failed.

RESULTS

The success rate for standard sphincterotomy was 89.8%: 51 out of 56 cases were carried out with precut biliary sphincterotomy and succeeded. The total success rate was 96.3%. The difference was significant (χ2=25.62, p<0.01) compared to the success rate of first cannulation, while the difference in complication rates between precut and standard sphincterotomy was minor (9.9 vs. 12.5%, p>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Early precut with a needle-knife in a difficult biliary cannulation was safe and effective if performed by experienced endoscopists.

Bile Duct Strictures Caused by Solid Masses: MR in Differential Diagnosis and as a Prognostic Tool to Plan the Endoscopic Treatment

The aim of the study was to assess how realiable is differential diagnosis and prognosis for endoscopic treatment with MR signal characteristics as the qualitative parameter and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) images in cases of bile duct obstructions caused by solid masses. Material and Methods. Retrospective study of MR and MRCP images in 80 patients (mean age 58 ys) was conducted. Mean signal intensity ratio (SIR) from planar MR images and MRCP linear measurements were compared between benign and malignant lesions and in groups including the size and number of stents placed during ERCP (< 10 F <) in 51 cases in which ERCP was performed. Results. Significantly higher SIR values were encountered in malignant lesions in T2W images (r = 0,0003) and STIR T2W images (r = 0,0002). Malignant lesions were characterised by longer strictures (r = 0,0071) and greater proximal biliary duct dilatation (r = 0,0024). High significance for predicting ERCP conditions was found with mean SIR in STIR T2W images and stricture length. Conclusion. Probability of malignancy of solid lesions obstructing biliary duct increased with higher SIR in T2W images and with longer strictures. Passing the stricture during ERCP treatment was easier and more probable in cases of shorter strictures caused by lesions with higher SIR in STIR T2W images.

Prevention of post-ERCP pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is one of the most common complications of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). A variety of patient-related and procedure-related factors have been identified to risk-stratify patients. Several measures can be undertaken in order to decrease the risk of post-ERCP pancreatitis in high-risk groups. These measures include pancreatic duct stenting and rectal indomethacin, amongst others.

Meta-analysis: rectal indomethacin for the prevention of post-ERCP pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Despite initial evidence in the literature, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have not been widely used to prevent post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP).

AIM

To complete a meta-analysis of high-quality RCTs that included the latest available literature published after past meta-analytical efforts

METHODS

A comprehensive electronic literature search was carried out for RCTs comparing peri-procedural rectal indomethacin and placebo in preventing PEP. Methodological quality was assessed by the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Fixed model Mantel-Haenszel meta-analysis, Q test and I(2) index were used. Several subgroup and sensitivity analyses were planned.

RESULTS

A total of four of 61 retrieved trials between 2007 and 2012 (n = 1470) were included. No significant publication bias existed. All studies used similar criteria to detect pancreatitis. The pooled proportion estimate of the rate of pancreatitis was 5.1% with indomethacin and 10.3% with placebo. After excluding the high-risk patients, the rates were 3.9% and 7.9% respectively. Fixed model meta-analysis showed that the rate of pancreatitis was significantly lower using indomethacin as compared with placebo [OR = 0.49(0.34-0.71); P = 0.0002]. Number needed to treat was 20. There was no significant statistical or clinical heterogeneity. In subgroup analysis, the difference remained unchanged for average-risk population [OR = 0.49(0.28-0.85); P = 0.01] or in preventing severe PEP [OR = 0.41(0.21-0.78); P = 0.007]. The result of the main outcome remained robust in multiple sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Rectal indomethacin used immediately before or after ERCP significantly reduces the risk of PEP to half in both low- and high-risk patients, and with both statistically and clinically significant conclusions. These results suggest that a possible change in routine practice for patients at both low and high risk of developing PEP should be advocated.

Preventing pancreatitis after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

Post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis is a common and potentially devastating complication of ERCP. Advances in risk stratification, patient selection, procedure technique, and prophylactic interventions have substantially improved the endoscopists' ability to prevent this complication. This article presents the evidence-based approaches to preventing post-ERCP pancreatitis and suggests timely research questions in this important area.

Sphincter of Oddi manometry using guide-wire-type manometer is feasible for examination of sphincter of Oddi motility

BACKGROUND

Sphincter of Oddi manometry (SOM) is recognized as the standard diagnostic modality for sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (SOD). However, SOM is not commonly performed because of its technical difficulty and the high incidence of post-procedural pancreatitis. To diminish post-procedural pancreatitis, we tried to develop a new method of SOM. This study examined the feasibility of SOM with a guide-wire-type manometer, which is commonly used to measure the arterial pressure for coronary angiography, for the assessment of SO motility.

METHODS

A total of 35 procedures were performed in 8 patients with biliary type III SOD and 14 patients with other disease. We performed SOM using the guide-wire-type manometer on SOD cases and other cases [amplitude, duration, frequency and the area under the curve (AUC) of SO contractions].

RESULTS

The mean time required for the measurement was 7.5 ± 4.1 min. The amplitude, frequency and AUC of SO contractions were significantly larger in the SOD cases than in other diseases (147.2 vs. 92.8 mmHg, p = 0.042; 10 vs. 5/min, p = 0.007; 2,837 vs. 1,122 mmHg s, p = 0.003, respectively). In 6 patients who underwent endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST), the SO amplitude decreased dramatically after EST. In this study, mild pancreatitis was observed in only one patient.

CONCLUSIONS

SOM using a guide-wire-type manometer is safe, reliable and easy to apply for the clinical assessment of SO motility. The guide-wire-type manometer may become a new method to measure SO function for the diagnosis of SOD.

Endoscopic treatments of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography-related duodenal perforations

Iatrogenic duodenal perforation associated with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a very uncommon complication that is often lethal. Perforations during ERCP are caused by endoscopic sphincterotomy, placement of biliary or duodenal stents, guidewire-related causes, and endoscopy itself. In particular, perforation of the medial or lateral duodenal wall usually requires prompt diagnosis and surgical management. Perforation can follow various clinical courses, and management depends on the cause of the perforation. Cases resulting from sphincterotomy or guidewire-induced perforation can be managed by conservative treatment and biliary diversion. The current standard treatment for perforation of the duodenal free wall is early surgical repair. However, several reports of primary endoscopic closure techniques using endoclip, endoloop, or newly developed endoscopic devices have recently been described, even for use in direct perforation of the duodenal wall.

Perforations following endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: a single institution experience and surgical recommendations

BACKGROUND

Perforation after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is uncommon, and its management is dependent on the mechanism and the graded classification of injury.

METHODS

Records of patients undergoing ERCP were analyzed over a 16-year period, patterning the types of injuries, diagnosis, management, and patient outcome. Type I injuries damage the medial or lateral duodenal wall before sphincter cannulation. Type II injuries are periampullary and occur as a result of a precut or a papillotomy. Type III injuries occur secondary to guidewire insertion or stone extraction from the common bile duct. Type IV injuries are probably microperforations that are noted on excessive insufflation during and after ERCP withdrawal.

RESULTS

Between 1995 and 2011, 27 perforations were identified from 1,638 ERCP procedures (1.6%). Nearly half of the procedures were regarded as difficult by the endoscopist, with 70% of the ERCPs (19 of 27) being for therapeutic indications. There were 5 type I, 12 type II, 5 type III, and 5 type IV perforations, of which 18 cases were diagnosed at the time of ERCP. Delayed diagnosis of type I perforations that were associated with free intraperitoneal air and contrast leakage proved fatal. Most type II perforations required immediate surgery with pyloric exclusion; delayed surgery with simple drainage had a high mortality rate. Most type III and type IV injuries can successfully be managed conservatively without delayed sepsis.

CONCLUSIONS

In perforation, the mechanism of injury during ERCP predicts the need for surgical management. Type I and type II injuries require early diagnosis and aggressive surgery, whereas type III and type IV injuries may be managed conservatively.

Transmission of infection by flexible gastrointestinal endoscopy and bronchoscopy

Flexible endoscopy is a widely used diagnostic and therapeutic procedure. Contaminated endoscopes are the medical devices frequently associated with outbreaks of health care-associated infections. Accurate reprocessing of flexible endoscopes involves cleaning and high-level disinfection followed by rinsing and drying before storage. Most contemporary flexible endoscopes cannot be heat sterilized and are designed with multiple channels, which are difficult to clean and disinfect. The ability of bacteria to form biofilms on the inner channel surfaces can contribute to failure of the decontamination process. Implementation of microbiological surveillance of endoscope reprocessing is appropriate to detect early colonization and biofilm formation in the endoscope and to prevent contamination and infection in patients after endoscopic procedures. This review presents an overview of the infections and cross-contaminations related to flexible gastrointestinal endoscopy and bronchoscopy and illustrates the impact of biofilm on endoscope reprocessing and postendoscopic infection.

Cannulation time is a more accurate measure of cannulation difficulty in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography than the number of attempts

BACKGROUND

Cannulation of the common bile duct (CBD) is the initial and sometime challenging step in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) procedure. Endoscopists often use cannulation attempts and cannulation time to grade cannulation difficulty, but a standard system has yet to be established. The objective of this study was to compare cannulation times with numbers of cannulation attempts, as measures of cannulation difficulty.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective study in a tertiary referral center, enrolling 58 patients who were undergoing ERCP for a variety of indications. Cannulation time and the number of cannulation attempts were recorded for each patient. A subset of 14 ERCPs had two observers assessing attempts at cannulation. Cannulation time, number of attempts and inter-observer variability in assessment of attempts were compared and studied.

RESULTS

The degree of agreement between two the methods (cannulation times and number of cannulation attempts) was unacceptable. There were considerable discrepancies between attempt tallies from two observers but the mean difference was statistically insignificant.

CONCLUSION

The grade of cannulation difficulty for a given ERCP procedure may differ when different methods are used (total cannulation time vs number of attempts); thus, grading by different methods should not be used interchangeably. Cannulation time is a more objective and more accurate assessment tool for grading cannulation difficulty than the number of attempts to cannulate the papilla.

TG13 current terminology, etiology, and epidemiology of acute cholangitis and cholecystitis

While referring to the evidence adopted in the Tokyo Guidelines 2007 (TG07) as well as subsequently obtained evidence, further discussion took place on terminology, etiology, and epidemiological data. In particular, new findings have accumulated on the occurrence of symptoms in patients with gallstones, frequency of severe cholecystitis and cholangitis, onset of cholecystitis and cholangitis after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and medications, mortality rate, and recurrence rate. The primary etiology of acute cholangitis/cholecystitis is the presence of stones. Next to stones, the most significant etiology of acute cholangitis is benign/malignant stenosis of the biliary tract. On the other hand, there is another type of acute cholecystitis, acute acalculous cholecystitis, in which stones are not involved as causative factors. Risk factors for acute acalculous cholecystitis include surgery, trauma, burn, and parenteral nutrition. After 2000, the mortality rate of acute cholangitis has been about 10 %, while that of acute cholecystitis has generally been less than 1 %. After the publication of TG07, diagnostic criteria and severity assessment criteria were standardized, and the distribution of cases according to severity and comparison of clinical data among target populations have become more subjective. The concept of healthcare-associated infections is important in the current treatment of infection. The treatment of acute cholangitis and cholecystitis substantially differs from that of community-acquired infections. Cholangitis and cholecystitis as healthcare-associated infections are clearly described in the updated Tokyo Guidelines (TG13). Free full-text articles and a mobile application of TG13 are available via http://www.jshbps.jp/en/guideline/tg13.html.

Improving ERCP quality and decreasing risk to patients and providers

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) continues to be one of the most complex gastrointestinal procedures and carries the highest risk of complications. Optimizing the outcome of ERCP requires a fine balance between the risk and the benefit of every maneuver performed. This fine balance has to include an analysis of the indication for the procedure, the optimal timing, the setting where the procedure is performed, the endoscopist and staff training and expertise, availability of surgical and interventional radiology support, the risk of every maneuver and ways to minimize this risk. As in any other procedure, it is very important to know one's limitations and have a plan for failed procedures including consulting a colleague or referring the patient to a center with more expertise. In addition, a process of quality improvement is integral to every endoscopy center to address areas of underperformance, improve patient care and decrease liability.

The results of the Tokyo trial of prevention of post-ERCP pancreatitis with risperidone (Tokyo P3R): a multicenter, randomized, phase II, non-placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

A previous study suggested that ulinastatin effectively prevented post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) and hyperenzymemia (PEH) in patients at average risk. In experimental models, risperidone, a selective serotonin 2A antagonist, ameliorated acute pancreatitis. We assessed the effect of risperidone combined with ulinastatin for the prevention of PEP in high-risk patients.

METHODS

In a multicenter, randomized, controlled, phase II trial, patients undergoing therapeutic ERCP were randomly assigned to receive ulinastatin (150000 U) with or without risperidone (1 mg). A risperidone tablet was taken orally 30-60 min before ERCP and ulinastatin was administered intravenously for 10 min immediately prior to ERCP. The primary end point was the incidence of PEP; secondary end points were PEH severity and enzyme levels (amylase, pancreatic amylase, lipase).

RESULTS

A total of 226 patients (113 per group) were included in the study. Six patients in the risperidone + ulinastatin group and ten patients in the ulinastatin group developed pancreatitis (5.3 vs. 8.8 %, p = 0.438). The incidence of moderate/severe PEP was lower in the risperidone + ulinastatin group (1.8 %) than in the ulinastatin group (4.4 %), but this difference was not significant. Although the incidence of PEH did not differ significantly, post-ERCP levels of all pancreatic enzymes were significantly lower in the risperidone + ulinastatin group.

CONCLUSIONS

Prophylactic oral risperidone administration in combination with ulinastatin did not reduce the incidence and severity of PEP in high-risk patients as compared with ulinastatin alone. However, risperidone showed an additive effect with ulinastatin, reducing serum pancreatic enzyme levels.

Wire-guided biliary cannulation technique does not reduce the risk of post-ERCP pancreatitis: multicenter randomized controlled trial

AIM

To evaluate the effect of wire-guided biliary cannulation (WGC) on the prevention of post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP).

METHODS

We investigated the impact of the WGC technique on the incidence of PEP by comparing the conventional cannulation (CC) technique in selective bile duct cannulation during ERCP with a cross-over design in a prospective multicenter randomized controlled trial and the potential risk factors for PEP. This involved six tertiary referral centers and three university hospitals. A total of 322 patients with indications for ERCP requiring selective biliary cannulation were enrolled from April 2008 to March 2009.

RESULTS

One hundred and sixty-three patients were assigned to the WGC group and 159 to the CC group. The incidence of PEP was the same between the groups (6.1% vs 6.3%, P = 0.95). Primary successful biliary cannulation was achieved in 136 patients (83%) in the WGC group and in 138 (87%) in the CC group (P = 0.40). The mean time required for primary successful biliary cannulation was 7.4 ± 8.3 min and 7.2 ± 7.9 min, respectively (P = 0.83). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that accidental guidewire insertions and unintended injections of contrast into the main pancreatic duct were the only independent risk factors for PEP (P = 0.001, relative risk [RR]: 8.70, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.46-30.81).

CONCLUSION

The WGC technique does not reduce the risk of PEP and also does not improve the success rate of selective bile duct cannulation.

Pancreatitis potentially associated drugs as a risk factor for post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis: a prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess the role of known risk factors and specifically evaluate the role of pancreatitis potentially associated drugs as potential risk factors for post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP).

METHODS

This was a prospective, single-center cohort study conducted in a tertiary university hospital. All eligible ERCP procedures within a 16-month period were evaluated, and all interventions, patient characteristics, and medications used were documented. The association of potential risk factor with PEP was investigated with univariable analyses. Those statistically significant were entered in a multivariable regression model.

RESULTS

Three hundred eighteen ERCP procedures were studied. Post-ERCP pancreatitis occurred in 28 patients (8.8%). Twenty-three potential risk factors were studied in univariable analyses, and 3 of them were found to be nominally statistically significant. These 3 factors were independently associated with PEP in the multivariable model and included the use of pancreatitis potentially associated drugs, belonging to Badalov classes I or II, during the last month before ERCP (odds ratio [OR], 4.39; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.70-5.47; P = 0.003), more than 1 guide-wire insertions in the pancreatic duct (OR, 5.00; 95% CI, 1.97-12.81; P = 0.001) and bile duct stone extraction (OR, 0.12; CI, 0.05-0.32; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Pancreatitis potentially associated drugs used before ERCP seem to increase the risk for PEP.

Risk factors for post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis

AIM: To investigate potential risk factors for pancreatitis after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).

METHODS: One hundred and sixty patients who underwent ERCP were enrolled in this retrospective study. Clinical data, including age, gender, history of pancreatitis, juxtapapillary diverticulum, dilatation of the common bile duct, multiple cannulation attempts, multiple opacification of the pancreatic duct and endoscopic sphincterotomy, were collected and analyzed to assess their relationship with the development of post-ERCP pancreatitis.

RESULTS: History of pancreatitis (P = 0.003, P = 0.0014), juxtapapillary diverticulum (P = 0.013, P = 0.0137), multiple cannulation attempts (P = 0.013, P = 0.0010), and multiple pancreatic duct opacification (P = 0.000, P = 0.0000) were found to be independent risk factors for post-ERCP pancreatitis. However, these four factors showed no obvious difference among patients with mild, moderate or severe pancreatitis (P > 0.05). Gender, age, dilatation of common bile-duct and papillotomy did not significantly affect the occurrence of post-ERCP pancreatitis (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION: History of pancreatitis, juxtapapillary diverticulum, multiple cannulation attempts and multiple pancreatic duct opacification are risk factors for post-ERCP pancreatitis.

Difficult biliary access at ERCP

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography allows intervention for a variety of diseases of the biliary tract. Cannulation of the bile duct is the prerequisite step for biliary intervention. Although obtaining biliary access is straightforward in many cases, it can occasionally be challenging. Multiple devices, all with additional wire-guided techniques, have been developed to aid cannulation. More advanced techniques have also been developed to aid biliary access if it is unsuccessful with standard devices. Multimodality techniques can be used if other approaches fail. This article provides an evidence-based discussion of these approaches, and provides insight into their appropriate application.

Rendezvous cannulation technique reduces post-ERCP pancreatitis: a prospective nationwide study of 12,718 ERCP procedures

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate if intraoperative rendezvous cannulation reduces the risk of post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP) because there is no universal consensus on the optimal treatment of common bile duct stones.

METHODS

We performed a nationwide case-control study, nested within the cohort of ERCP procedures reported to the Swedish Registry for Gallstone Surgery and ERCP (GallRiks), between 2007 and 2009. Data were collected prospectively from a web-based registry of ERCP procedures that includes variables such as patient characteristics, indication, cannulation technique, diagnostic findings, therapeutic measures, and complications. The primary outcome was PEP.

RESULTS

The registry included 12,718 ERCP procedures performed on patients without a history of previous ERCP. The risk of PEP when using the rendezvous technique compared with those who were cannulated by conventional means was reduced from 3.6 to 2.2% (odds ratio (OR) 0.5, 95% confidence interval 0.2-0.9, P=0.02). Although a significant reduction there are overall relatively few cases with PEP and the calculated numbers needed to treat to avoid one case of PEP is as high as 71. Other factors associated with increased risk of PEP were young age, prolonged procedure time, and elective ERCP.

CONCLUSIONS

Rendezvous bile duct cannulation during ERCP reduces the risk of PEP from 3.6 to 2.2% compared with conventional biliary cannulation.

Endoscopic ultrasonography in tandem with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the management of suspected distal obstructive jaundice

GOALS

To examine the benefits and feasibility of endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in tandem for distal obstructive jaundice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From September 2007 to August 2012, patients with suspected distal obstructive jaundice were randomized to single-session EUS-ERCP (group A), EUS, and ERCP in different sessions (group B), and an ERCP-only procedure (group C). Data were prospectively collected on the following parameters: ERCP-avoided, duration of procedure, the dose of propofol, complications, and diagnostic yield.

RESULTS

A total of 180 patients were divided randomly into 60 patients in group A, 60 in group B, and 60 in group C. A total of four therapeutic ERCP were canceled after EUS. The ERCP procedural time in group A was shorter, although not significantly different from that in group B (group A vs. group B: 41.24±7.57 vs. 43.38±6.57 min; P>0.05), but both were significantly less than that in group C (group C: 49.12±7.46 min; P<0.05). The total procedural time did not differ significantly between group A and group B (70.05±15.35 vs. 73.70±15.12 min; P>0.05), nor were there significant differences in the dose of propofol between them (group A vs. group B: 357.11±115.86 vs. 369.55±133.86 mg; P>0.05). In all, 22 anesthetic complications and 21 endoscopic complications occurred without significant differences among the three groups (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

As a triaging or a screening tool, diagnostic EUS gives added benefit to therapeutic ERCP. EUS and ERCP in a tandem approach are safe and feasible in patients with suspected distal obstructive jaundice.

Comparison of carbon dioxide and air insufflation use by non-expert endoscopists during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

BACKGROUND

  Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is subject to several complications that include a lengthy procedure time, technical difficulty, and active bowel movement induced by air insufflation. In ERCP carried out by non-expert endoscopists who are prone to excessive luminal insufflation, insufflation with carbon dioxide (CO2 ) may provide better and safer outcomes. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of CO2 insufflation during ERCP by non-expert endoscopists.

METHODS

  This study included 208 consecutive patients who received ERCP, excluding those in poor general health or with obstructive lung disease. The first operator for each patient was a non-expert endoscopist having done 50 or fewer ERCP procedures. Primary outcomes were the changes in cardiopulmonary state during ERCP. Secondary outcomes were ERCP complications. We designed a single-center, randomized, prospective, double-blind, controlled trial with CO2 and air insufflation during ERCP.

RESULTS

  CO2 insufflation did not affect overall procedure progression or results. A positive correlation was observed between procedure time and change in maximal systolic blood pressure from baseline among patients in the air insufflation group, but not in the CO2 insufflation group (correlation coefficient 0.408 vs 0.114, change in the maximal systolic blood pressure from baseline +4.2 vs+1.2 mmHg/10 min). This was consistent with our findings in patients treated by the first operator alone. The occurrence rate of post-ERCP pancreatitis tended to be lower in the CO2 group than the air group (4/102 [3.9%]vs 0/106 [0%], P = 0.056).

CONCLUSIONS

  CO2 insufflation during ERCP by non-expert endoscopists is recommended from the standpoints of efficacy and safety.

Antioxidant supplementation for the prevention of post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background

Acute pancreatitis remains the most common major complication of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The pathogenesis of post-ERCP acute pancreatitis may be mediated by oxygen-derived free radicals, which could be ameliorated by antioxidants. Antioxidant supplementation may potentially prevent post-ERCP pancreatitis. We performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to evaluate the effect of prophylactic antioxidant supplementation compared with control on the prevention of post-ERCP pancreatitis.

Methods

PubMed and Embase databases were searched to identify relevant trials. A standardized Excel file was used to extract data by two independent authors. Results were expressed as risk ratio (RR) with accompanying 95% confidence interval (CI). The meta-analysis was performed with the fixed-effects model or random-effects model according to heterogeneity.

Results

Eleven studies involving 3,010 patients met our inclusion criteria. Antioxidant supplementation did not significantly decrease the incidence of post-ERCP pancreatitis (RR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.65-1.32; P = 0.665). There was also no statistical difference in the severity grades between the antioxidant group and control group.

Conclusions

Based on current evidence, antioxidant supplementation shows no beneficial effect on the incidence and the severity of post-ERCP pancreatitis; thus, there is currently a lack of evidence to support using antioxidants for the prevention of post-ERCP pancreatitis.

Endoscopic treatment of the choledocholithiasis--effectiveness, safety and limitations of the method

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-Pancreatography (ERCP) is accepted referred method of treatment of the choledocholithiasis.

THE AIM OF THE STUDY

Evaluation of efficacy and safety of the endoscopic treatment of the biliary tract stones.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Results of 3309 Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-Pancreatography (ERCP) carried out in Division of Endoscopy of the General Surgery Department in the period 2000 - 2010. The retrospective analysis of the indications, process, findings and final results of 1698 ERCP and Endoscopic Sphincterotomy (ES) was performed with intention to treat of the biliary tract stones.

RESULTS

The 883 (52%)patients with coexisted gall-bladder and biliary tract stones were the principal group. The second group included 580 (34.2%) patients with residual choledocholithiasis after cholecystectomy and biliary tract surgery. Moreover ERCP, ES and endoscopic evacuation of biliary stones have been urgently carried out in 159 (9.4%) cases with acute biliary pancreatitis. Lastly ERCP with re-sphincterotomy and removal of the stones was performed in 75 (4.4%) patients with recurrent choledocholithiasis. The procedure was effective in 1561 (92%) patients. When removal of the stones was not possible, decompression of the biliary tract by implantation of the plastic stent was done in 63 (3.7%) cases. Ineffective procedure was noted in 74 (4.3%) patients. The most commonly observed complication was acute pancreatitis. Because of: post ES bleeding, acute haemmorhagic and necrotic pancreatitis, impacted Dormia basket and peripapillary duodenal perforation 10 patients (0.5%) had to be operated. Two patients (0.1%) died.

CONCLUSIONS

1. Endoscopic treatment of choledocholithiasis is highly effective but risk factors of complications with urgency an intensive conservative management and surgical intervention have to be considered. 2. After ES, if surgical evacuation of the stones have to be carry out, post operative biliary tract drainage (by T tube) is not necessary.

Risk factors for post-ERCP cholangitis in patients with pancreatic cancer from a single referral center in Iran

Cholangitis is relatively uncommon but associated mortality is high due to the predisposition in people with underlying disease. For this recognition of contributing risk factors is necessary. Therefore, the present descriptive- analytical cross-sectional survey was designed to determine contributing risk factors for post-ERCP cholangitis in patients with pancreatic cancer. From 2005 to 2010, 110 consecutive cases of pancreatic cancer attending to a tertiary referral centre (Taleghani Hospital), Tehran, Iran were recruited. The patients all underwent stenting via endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). On univariate analysis, a metallic stent type (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.025-11.34, P=0.037), having no jaundice (1.44-2.22, P=0.009), having no pain (1.32-1.91, P=0.026), a history of prior ERCP (1.16-10.37, P=0.020), and having a proximal biliary stone (1.002- 5.93, P=0.046) were related to cholangitis. However on multivariate analysis, none of these factors were found to be contributing risk factors. Cholangitis is avoidable with adequate biliary drainage. Because success rates are higher and complication rates lower for endoscopists performing large volumes of ERCP, performance of the procedure should be concentrated as much as possible in institutions with endoscopists having adequate experience. Patients with a high risk for complications may be best served by referral to an advanced center.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Current and Future Management Strategies

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease. The etiology of this disorder is unknown and there are no effective medical therapies. PSC is associated with inflammatory bowel disease and an increased risk for hepatobiliary and colorectal malignancies. The aim of this review is to highlight the clinical features and diagnostic approach to patients with suspected PSC, characterize associated comorbidities, review screening strategies for PSC associated malignancies and review contemporary and future therapies.

Guidewire-assisted cannulation of the common bile duct for the prevention of post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Cannulation techniques have been recognized to be important in causing post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP). However, considerable controversy exists about the usefulness of the guidewire-assisted cannulation technique for the prevention of PEP.

OBJECTIVES

To systematically review evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effectiveness and safety of the guidewire-assisted cannulation technique compared to the conventional contrast-assisted cannulation technique for the prevention of PEP.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library), MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases and major conference proceedings, up to February 2012, using the Cochrane Upper Gastrointestinal and Pancreatic Diseases model with no language restrictions.

SELECTION CRITERIA

RCTs comparing the guidewire-assisted cannulation technique versus the contrast-assisted cannulation technique in patients undergoing ERCP.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors conducted study selection, data extraction and methodological quality assessment independently. Using intention-to-treat analysis with random-effects models, we combined dichotomous data to obtain risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). We assessed heterogeneity using the Chi² test (P < 0.15) and I² statistic (> 25%). To explore sources of heterogeneity, we conducted a priori subgroup analyses according to trial design, publication type, risk of bias, use of precut sphincterotomy, inadvertent guidewire insertion or contrast injection of the pancreatic duct (PD), use of a PD stent, cannulation device, and trainee involvement in cannulation. To assess the robustness of our results we carried out sensitivity analyses using different summary statistics (RR versus odds ratio (OR)) and meta-analytic models (fixed-effect versus random-effects), and per protocol analysis.

MAIN RESULTS

Twelve RCTs comprising 3450 participants were included. There was statistical heterogeneity among trials for the outcome of PEP (P = 0.04, I² = 45%). The guidewire-assisted cannulation technique significantly reduced PEP compared to the contrast-assisted cannulation technique (RR 0.51, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.82). In addition, the guidewire-assisted cannulation technique was associated with greater primary cannulation success (RR 1.07, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.15), less precut sphincterotomy (RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.60 to 0.95), and no increase in other ERCP-related complications. Subgroup analyses indicated that this significant risk reduction in PEP with the guidewire-assisted cannulation technique existed only in 'non-crossover' trials (RR 0.22, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.42). The results were robust in sensitivity analyses.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Compared with the contrast-assisted cannulation technique, the guidewire-assisted cannulation technique increases the primary cannulation rate and reduces the risk of PEP, and it appears to be the most appropriate first-line cannulation technique.

Patterns and predictive factors of complications after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

BACKGROUND

With an increased use of magnetic resonance imaging, the indications for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) have changed. Consequently, the patterns and factors predictive of complications after ERCP performed during current routine clinical practice are not well known.

METHODS

A prospective multicentre cohort study was undertaken in 11 Norwegian hospitals. Complications and mortality within 30 days after ERCP were analysed by univariable and multivariable regression analysis.

RESULTS

There were 2808 ERCP procedures, of which 2573 (91·6 per cent) were therapeutic. More than half of the patients were aged 70 years or more. Common bile duct cannulation was achieved in 2557 procedures (91·1 per cent). Complications occurred in 327 (11·6 per cent) of the procedures, including cholangitis in 100 (3·6 per cent), pancreatitis in 88 (3·1 per cent), bleeding in 66 (2·4 per cent), perforation in 25 (0·9 per cent) and cardiovascular-respiratory events in 32 (1·1 per cent). In the multivariable regression analysis, older age, increasing American Society of Anesthesiologists fitness score, centre ERCP volumes of more than 150 procedures annually and precut sphincterotomy were predictive factors for severe complications. The overall 30-day mortality rate was 2·2 per cent (63 patients), with a procedure-related mortality rate of 1·4 per cent (39 patients). Malignancy was diagnosed in 46 (73 per cent) of the patients who died.

CONCLUSION

ERCP is a procedure with considerable risk for complications. Morbidity and mortality are related to patient age and co-morbidity, as well as hospital volume of ERCP procedures and the type of intervention.

The usefulness of SpyGlass™ choledochoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of biliary disorders

Peroral choledochoscopy was first described in the 1970s, but the use of earlier generation choledochoscopes was significantly limited by complex equipment setup and fragility resulting in high repair costs. In late 2006, the SpyGlass Direct Visualization System (Boston Scientific Corp, Natick, MA, USA) was introduced to the market. It is a single-operator cholangioscopy platform and improves upon many shortcomings of the dual-operator systems. Currently, the two main indications for its use are evaluation of indeterminate biliary strictures and lithotripsy for difficult-to-remove biliary stones. Recently published prospective data reconfirm that the overall success rates for adequate tissue sampling and bile duct stone clearance are around 90 %, with an acceptable safety profile. The sensitivity for detecting cancer in intrinsic biliary strictures (e.g., cholangiocarcinoma) is superior to that of standard ERCP sampling modalities, but a limited yield has been noted when sampling extrinsic malignant biliary strictures (e.g., pancreatic cancer). The two main limitations of the SpyGlass system are image quality that is impeded by the use of fiberoptic technology and a relatively small accessory channel providing passage only for dedicated miniaccessories. Nevertheless, the SpyGlass platform has made single-operator cholangioscopy feasible and refined the technique in a number of important ways. This innovation has significantly expanded our diagnostic and therapeutic ERCP armamentarium. An upgraded digital imaging version is currently in development.

Quality assessment of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: results of a running nationwide Austrian benchmarking project after 5 years of implementation

OBJECTIVE

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has a high risk of various complications. The aim of this study is to report the main ERCP outcome, that means complications and success rates, on the basis of the pooled data of a national continuous quality assessment program.

METHODS

This study is an uncontrolled prospective survey and provides data from both academic and community-based endoscopy centers with varying case volumes and expertise. Data were collected within a nationwide voluntary ERCP benchmarking project that was initiated by the Austrian Society of Gastroenterology and Hepatology.

RESULTS

In total, 42 sites participated in this program for varying periods (1 month up to 5 years) and reported 13 513 procedures within 5 years. The overall complication rate in nonselected patients was 10.1%. Post-ERCP pancreatitis occurred in 4.2%, bleeding in 3.6% (0.4% clinically relevant), cholangitis in 1.4%, cardiopulmonary complications in 1.2%, perforation in 0.6%, and procedure-related deaths in 0.1% of procedures. The overall therapeutic and diagnostic target was achieved in 80.3% (2009-2011) to 84.8% (2006/2007) of procedures. The desired duct was visualized in 90.7% and cannulated in 88.8% of procedures.

CONCLUSION

The aim of the running benchmarking project in ERCP is to improve patient care in Austria. The survey reflects the general effectiveness and safety of ERCP. The overall complication and success rates are consistent with the available literature data. It sets an example as a benchmarking program that might result in international or even pan-European projects in high-risk endoscopic procedures.

Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration in patients with previous upper abdominal operations

Backgrounds/Aims

We aimed to to evaluate the feasibility of laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) in patients with previous upper abdominal surgery.

Methods

Retrospective analysis was performed on data from the attempted laparoscopic common bile duct exploration in 44 patients. Among them, 5 patients with previous lower abdominal operation were excluded. 39 patients were divided into two groups according to presence of previous upper abdominal operation; Group A: patients without history of abdominal operation. (n=27), Group B: patients with history of upper abdominal operation. Both groups (n=12) were compared to each other, with respect to clinical characteristics, operation time, postoperative hospital stay, open conversion rate, postoperative complication, duct clearance and mortality.

Results

All of the 39 patients received laparoscopic common bile duct exploration and choledochotomy with T-tube drainage (n=38 [97.4%]) or with primary closure (n=1). These two groups were not statistically different in gender, mean age and presence of co-morbidity, mean operation time (164.5±63.1 min in group A and 134.8±45.2 min in group B, p=0.18) and postoperative hospital stay (12.6±5.7 days in group A and 9.8±2.9 days in group B, p=0.158). Duct clearance and complication rates were comparable (p>0.05). 4 cases were converted to open in group A and 1 case in group B respectively. In group A (4 of 27 (14.8%) and 1 of 12 (8.3%) in group B, p=0.312) Trocar or Veress needle related complication did not occur in either group.

Conclusions

LCBDE appears to be a safe and effective treatment even in the patients with previous upper abdominal operation if performed by experienced laparoscopic surgeon, and it can be the best alternative to failed endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for difficult cholelithiasis.

Effectiveness of combined endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy and stenting in patients with suspected pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy (EUS-FNA) can be coupled with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the same setting when biliary and/or duodenal stenting are required.

AIMS

Our aim was to examine the effectiveness of EUS-FNA combined with stenting during the same session in patients with pancreatic cancer.

METHODS

Consecutive patients referred for EUS-FNA of a pancreatic mass with symptoms of biliary (±upper digestive) obstruction were included. Consecutive patients undergoing biliary and/or duodenal stenting without EUS-FNA during the same period were used as controls. Procedure-related complications were the primary outcome measure. Duration of the procedure, ability to achieve biliary/duodenal stenting, the yield of EUS-FNA, and clinical outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 122 patients underwent combined EUS-FNA and stenting and 68 underwent stenting alone (control group). In the combined group, histological proof of cancer was obtained in 88.52% at first EUS-FNA and 95.08% after a second EUS-FNA. Biliary stent placement was successful in 97.5 and 98% in the combined and the control groups, respectively. There was no statistical difference between the groups for length of stay after endoscopy and for procedure-related mortality and morbidity within 30 days. The median time from endoscopy to chemotherapy in the combined group was 12 days.

CONCLUSION

Combined EUS-FNA and biliary and/or duodenal stenting is feasible in almost all patients with suspected pancreatic cancer, with no additional hazard and a high histological yield.

Somatostatin versus endoscopic nasal biliary drainage in the prevention of post-ERCP pancreatitis and hyperamylasemia

AIM: To investigate the preventive effect of somatostatin versus endoscopic nasal biliary drainage (ENBD) on post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) and hyperamylasemia.

METHODS: A total of 110 patients were enrolled and randomly divided into 3 groups to receive somatostatin, ENBD or placebo. Incidences of PEP, hyperamylasemia and adverse reactions were observed.

RESULTS: The overall incidences of PEP and hyperamylasemia were 17.2% (19/110) and 4.54% (5/110), respectively. The levels of serum amylase at 6 h in the somatostatin group and ENBD group were significantly lower than that in the control group (467 IU/L ± 63 IU/L 501 IU/L ± 405 IU/L vs 1 323 IU/L ± 46 IU/L, both P < 0.05), while the levels of serum amylase at 24 h showed no significant differences among the three groups (P > 0.05). The time to disappearance of abdominal symptoms, the time to recovery of blood parameters, and average length of hospital stay in the somatostatin group and ENBD group were significantly shorter than those in the control group (all P < 0.05). The costs were significantly lower in the somatostatin group than in the ENBD group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Both somatostatin and ENBD can effectively prevent post-ERCP pancreatitis and hyperamylasemia, and somatostatin is associated with lower medical expenses.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography complications in the era of cholangioscopy: is there an increased risk?

BACKGROUND

Single-operator cholangioscopy allows direct visualization of the biliary tree and is being used in the diagnosis and treatment of various biliary conditions. To date, there are few data examining complications of single-operator cholangioscopy.

METHODS

We evaluated all endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography procedures over a two-year period and compared its complication rate to single-operator cholangioscopy in a tertiary care centre with extensive experience in single-operator cholangioscopy. A total of 2087 patients (55% men, mean age 57.4±16.4) had a therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, out of which 169 also had single-operator cholangioscopy performed on them.

RESULTS

169 single-operator cholangioscopy procedures were performed (53% men) with a mean patient age of 60.7±15.2 years. Out of the 2087 patients, 160 complications occurred (7.7%), and included pancreatitis (n=47, 2.2%), infection (n=24, 1.1%), bleeding (n=44, 2.1%), perforation (n=16, 0.8%) and other (n=29, 1.4%). Univariate analysis on overall complications identified seven variables with a p value<0.2, which were included in the multivariate analysis. Biliary sphincterotomy, pancreatic duct stent placement, and ampullectomy were associated with increased complications. Single-operator cholangioscopy was not associated with increased complications on multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

Single-operator cholangioscopy is not associated with an increased rate of complications when compared to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. The types and frequencies of overall endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography complications are similar to previously reported series.