Adverse outcomes of ERCP

Efficacy and safety of novel hemostatic gel in endoscopic sphincterotomy or endoscopic papillectomy: A multicenter, randomized controlled clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Endoscopists often experience obstacles with traditional hemostasis using the side-viewing duodenoscope for bleeding after endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) or endoscopic papillectomy (EP).

AIMS

In this randomized controlled trial, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of a novel hemostatic gel for post-EST or post-EP bleeding.

METHODS

A randomized trial was conducted from November 2020 to December 2021 at two tertiary centers in South Korea. Patients who experienced bleeding immediately after EST or EP were enrolled in the study, and primary hemostasis was achieved with either the novel hemostatic gel or epinephrine spray.

RESULTS

A total of 84 patients were enrolled in this study, and 41 patients were finally analyzed in each group. Hemostatic gel was significantly superior to epinephrine spray for successful primary hemostasis (100% vs. 85.4%; P = 0.026). ). In terms of delayed bleeding, no significant difference was observed between the hemostatic gel and epinephrine spray (2.4% vs. 7.3%; P = 0.329). The mean procedural time was significantly higher for the hemostatic gel than epinephrine spray (3.23 ± 1.94 vs. 1.76 ± 0.99 min; P < 0.001), and no differences were observed in the adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

The novel hemostatic gel is expected to achieve satisfactory results with easier hemostasis for immediate bleeding after EST or EP. (Registered in Clinical Research Information Service: KCT0005607).

Risk of post-sphincterotomy bleeding in patients with thrombocytopenia

Background

Reports suggest that the rate of adverse events (AEs) post-endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) to be as high as 10%, with gastrointestinal bleeding being most common after post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis.

Objective

The aim of this study was to characterize the incidence of bleeding in patients with thrombocytopenia following ES.

Design

Retrospective observational cohort study.

Methods

Patients with thrombocytopenia (defined as <150,000 platelets/μL) who underwent ES between May 2017 and December 2020 were identified at a tertiary care medical center. The incidence of immediate (intraprocedural oozing >5 min or requiring intervention) or delayed (clinical bleeding with associated hemoglobin drop within 14 days) post-ES bleeding was determined via manual chart review.

Results

A total of 221 patients with a mean platelet count of 108,000 ± 13,000 platelets/μL underwent ERCP with ES. Immediate bleeding occurred in 11 (5%) patients with no significant drop in hemoglobin or transfusion requirement. Two patients (0.9%), both of whom were noted to have immediate bleeding, also developed delayed bleeding. Presence of malignancy was associated with an increased risk of bleeding (36.4% versus 11.4%, p = 0.037) while platelet count was not.

Conclusion

In a cohort of patients with thrombocytopenia, rates of immediate and delayed bleeding are similar to previously reported AE rates of ES in the general patient population. Careful attention should be given to patients with a history of active malignancy as well as those who develop immediate bleeding as they appear to be at increased risk for bleeding complications.

An Insight on Pharmacological and Mechanical Preventive Measures of Post-ERCP PANCREATITIS (PEP)—A Review

Pancreatitis is the most common complication following endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP). With the progress of research in many drugs and technologies, promising efficacy has been achieved in preventing post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP). Recently, combined prevention has received more attention in order to further reduce the incidence of PEP. However, there is no review about the combined prevention of PEP. This review summarizes the medication and ERCP techniques that are used to prevent PEP and emphasizes that appropriate combination prevention approaches should be based on risk stratification.

Post-ERCP Complication Analysis of an Experienced Center

BACKGROUND/AIM

Post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP), post-sphincterotomy bleeding (PSB), and Post-ERCP perforation are the most common complications of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Identification of risk factors for post-ERCP complications is critical for postoperative follow-up. This study aimed to evaluate the most common post-ERCP complication risk factors in an experienced center.

METHODS/DESIGN

The sample consisted of 1288 patients with naive papillae. Demographic characteristics, patient-related risk factors, procedure-related risk factors and postoperative complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Patients had a mean age of 61.5±18.4 years. The prevalence of PEP, PSB, and post-ERCP perforation was 7.9%, 11.9%, and 0.5%, respectively. Among patient-related factors, female sex (OR 1.672 95% Cl 1.046 to 2.672) and narrowing of the choledochal diameter (OR 2.910 95% Cl 1.830 to 4.626) were associated with PEP. From procedure-related factors; precut sphincterotomy (OR 2.172 95% Cl 1.182 to 3.994), difficult cannulation (OR 5.110 95% Cl 2.731 to 9.560), pancreatic cannulation (OR 5.692 95% Cl 0.994 to 32.602) and postprocedure residual stone (OR 2.252 95% Cl 1.403 to 3.614) were found to be associated with PEP. The successful procedure (OR 0.378 95% Cl 0.204 to 0.699) had a protective effect on PEP. Choledocholithiasis indication (OR 3.594 95% Cl 1.444 to 8.942) and small papilla (OR 2.042 95% Cl 1.170 to 3.562) were associated with the development of PSB. Choledochal stenosis, periampullary-diverticulum, oral anticoagulant, and oral antiaggregant use were not associated with the development of PSB. Of the patients with post-ERCP perforation, 85.7% had difficult cannulation, 57.1% had precut sphincterotomy, and 28.6% had periampullary-diverticulum.

CONCLUSION

Female sex, biliary stricture, precut sphincterotomy, difficult cannulation, pancreatic cannulation, and postoperative residual stone were associated with PEP. Choledocholithiasis indication and the presence of small papilla were associated with PSB.

The Safety and Efficacy of an Unflanged 4F Pancreatic Stent in Transpancreatic Precut Sphincterotomy for Patients with Difficult Biliary Cannulation: A Prospective Cohort Study

Prophylactic pancreatic stenting effectively reduces the rate and severity of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) in the precut technique; however, studies on the optimal type and duration of the stent are still lacking. This prospective study evaluated the incidence and severity of PEP and the rate of spontaneous stent dislodgement in patients undergoing transpancreatic precut sphincterotomy (TPS) accompanied by prophylactic pancreatic stenting with an unflanged plastic stent (4F × 5 cm) for difficult biliary cannulation. A total of 247 patients with naïve papilla were enrolled in this study, and data were collected prospectively. In the final analysis, 170 and 61 patients were included in the standard cannulation technique and TPS groups, respectively. The incidence of PEP in the standard cannulation technique and TPS groups was 3.5% and 1.6% (p = 0.679), respectively. The technical success rate of selective biliary cannulation in the TPS group was 91.8%. The spontaneous dislodgement rate of the prophylactic plastic stent was 98.4%. In conclusion, an unflanged pancreatic stent (4F × 5 cm) placement in TPS for patients with failed standard cannulation technique is a safe and effective measure due to low adverse events and few additional endoscopic procedures for removing the pancreatic duct (PD) stent.

The preventive effect of tacrolimus on patients with post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis

Background/Aims

In patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), calcineurin activates zymogen, which results in pancreatitis. In this study, we aimed to determine the efficacy of tacrolimus, a calcineurin inhibitor, in preventing post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP).

Methods

This was a prospective pilot study in which patients who underwent ERCP received tacrolimus (4 mg in two divided doses); this was the Tac group. A contemporaneous cohort of patients was included as a control group. All patients were followed-up for PEP. PEP was characterized by worsening abdominal pain with an acute onset, elevated pancreatic enzymes, and a duration of hospital stay of more than 48 hours. Serum tacrolimus levels were measured immediately before the procedure in the Tac group.

Results

There were no differences in the baseline characteristics between the Tac group (n=48) and the control group (n=51). Only four out of 48 patients (8.3%) had PEP in the Tac group compared to eight out of 51 patients (15.7%) who had PEP in the control group. The mean trough tacrolimus level in patients who developed PEP was significantly lower (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Oral tacrolimus at a cumulative dose of 4 mg safely prevents PEP. Further randomized controlled studies are warranted to establish the role of tacrolimus in this context.

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in Patients With Liver Cirrhosis: Analysis of Trends and Outcomes From the National Inpatient Sample Database

GOALS

We aimed to assess outcomes of patients with liver cirrhosis who underwent therapeutic or diagnostic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to determine whether these patients had different outcomes relative to patients without cirrhosis.

BACKGROUND

ERCP is an important procedure for treatment of biliary and pancreatic disease. However, ERCP is relatively technically difficult to perform when compared with procedures such as esophagogastroduodenoscopy or colonoscopy. Little is known about how ERCP use affects patients with liver cirrhosis.

STUDY

Using patient records from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database, we identified adult patients who underwent ERCP between 2009 and 2014 using International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision coding and stratified data into 2 groups: patients with liver cirrhosis and those without liver cirrhosis. We compared baseline characteristics and multiple outcomes between groups and compared outcomes of diagnostic versus therapeutic ERCP in patients with cirrhosis. A multivariate regression model was used to estimate the association of cirrhosis with ERCP outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 1,038,258 hospitalizations of patients who underwent ERCP between 2009 and 2014 were identified, of which 31,294 had cirrhosis and 994,681 did not have cirrhosis. Of the patients with cirrhosis, 21,835 (69.8%) received therapeutic ERCP and 9459 (30.2%) received diagnostic ERCP. Patients with cirrhosis had more ERCP-associated hemorrhages (2.5% vs. 1.2%; P <0.0001) compared with noncirrhosis patients but had lower incidence of perforations (0.1% vs. 0.2%; P <0.0001) and post-ERCP pancreatitis (8.6% vs. 7%; P <0.0001). Cholecystitis was the same between groups (2.3% vs. 2.3%; P <0.0001). In patients with cirrhosis, those who received therapeutic ERCP had higher post-ERCP pancreatitis (7.9% vs. 5.1%; P <0.0001) and ERCP-associated hemorrhage (2.7% vs. 2.1%; P <0.0001) but lower incidences of perforation and cholecystitis (0.1% vs. 0.3%; P <0.0001) and cholecystitis (1.9 vs. 3.1%; P <0.0001) compared with those who received diagnostic ERCP.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of therapeutic ERCP in patients with liver cirrhosis may lead to higher risk of complications such as pancreatitis and postprocedure hemorrhage, whereas diagnostic ERCP may increase the risk of pancreatitis and cholecystitis in patients with cirrhosis. Comorbidities in cirrhosis patients may increase the risk of post-ERCP complications and mortality; therefore, use of ERCP in cirrhosis patients should be carefully considered, and further studies on this patient population are needed.

Risk of Pancreatitis Following Biliary Stenting With/Without Endoscopic Sphincterotomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The efficacy of endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) before endoscopic transpapillary biliary drainage in preventing post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis (PEP) has not been established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of performing ES before biliary stent/tube placement on the occurrence of PEP.

METHODS

Three hundred seventy patients with biliary stricture requiring endoscopic biliary stenting were enrolled and randomly allocated to the ES group (n = 185) or non-ES group (n = 185). All participants were followed up for 30 days after the procedure. The data and occurrence of adverse events were prospectively collected. The primary outcome measure of this study was the incidence of PEP within 2 days of initial transpapillary biliary drainage. Secondary outcome measures were the incidence of other adverse events related to biliary stent/tube placement.

RESULTS

PEP occurred in 36 patients (20.6%) in the non-ES group and in 7 patients (3.9%) in the ES group (P < .001). The difference in the incidence of PEP between the 2 groups in the per-protocol population was 16.7% (95% confidence interval, 10.1%-23.3%), which was not within the noninferiority margin of 6%. Except for bleeding, the incidences of other adverse events were not significantly different between the groups.

CONCLUSION

ES before endoscopic biliary stenting could have the preventive effect on the occurrence of PEP in patients with biliary stricture. University Hospital Medical Information Network Number, UMIN000025727.University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry URL: https://www.umin.ac.jp/ctr/index.htm.

US Nationwide Insight Into All-cause 30-day Readmissions following Inpatient Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is associated with a high risk for morbidity, mortality, and hospital readmission. Data regarding those risks in the United States is scarce. We assessed post-ERCP 30-day readmission rates, their etiologies, and impact on the health care system using national data.

METHODS

Using the National Readmission Database 2016, we identified patients who underwent inpatient ERCP from January 2016 to December 2016 using ICD-10-CM procedure codes. The primary endpoint was all-cause 30-day readmission rate. Etiologies of readmission were identified by tallying primary diagnosis. Multivariable logistic regression with complex survey design was used to identify independent risk factors associated with readmission.

RESULTS

A total of 130,145 patients underwent ERCP, 16,278 (12.5%) were readmitted within 30 days, with an associated cost of 268 million dollars. Nearly 40% of readmissions occurred within 7 days, and 47.9% were related to gastrointestinal etiologies. Male gender, increased comorbidities, cirrhosis, Medicare insurance, and pancreatitis or pancreatitis-related indications for ERCP were readmission risk factors. Performance of cholecystectomy on index hospitalization decreased odds of readmission by 50% (adjusted odds ratio: 0.48, 95% confidence interval: 0.45-0.52,P<0.0001). While academic and nonacademic centers had similar readmission rates, high ERCP volume centers had higher rates compared with low-volume centers (adjusted odds ratio:1.10,P=0.008).

CONCLUSION

All-cause 30-day readmission rates after inpatient ERCPs are high, mostly occur shortly postdischarge, and impose a heavy health care system burden. Large, multicenter prospective studies assessing the impact of center procedure volume on complications and readmission rates are needed.

Implementation of mandatory ERCP registration in The Netherlands and compliance with European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy performance measures: a multicenter database study

BACKGROUND

In 2018, the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) and United European Gastroenterology (UEG) published quality performance measures for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Since January 2016, all endoscopists in the Netherlands have been required to register all ERCP procedures in a nationwide quality registry. This study aimed to evaluate the procedural success rates of ERCP after the implementation of mandatory national registration and to compare these with the ESGE quality performance measures.

METHODS

This study was conducted with data from a multicenter endoscopy database. Data from 2019 and 2020 were analyzed. The primary outcome was ERCP procedural outcome. ESGE performance measures that could be evaluated were the percentage of successful bile duct cannulations in patients with virgin papillary anatomy; successful stent placement for a biliary obstruction located below the liver hilum; and complete removal of bile duct stones (< 10 mm).

RESULT

In total, 5295 ERCPs performed in 11 centers were included for analysis. The overall procedural success rate was 89.1 %. Successful biliary cannulation in patients with a virgin papilla was 90.3 % in nonacademic and 92.4 % in academic centers. The rates of successful stent placement in patients with a biliary obstruction located below the liver hilum were 97.0 % in nonacademic and 98.2 % in academic centers, and of successful bile duct stone extraction were 97.9 % in both nonacademic and academic centers.

CONCLUSIONS

The quality of ERCPs performed met five of the six evaluated ESGE performance measures. The 95 % target for successful biliary cannulation in patients with virgin papillary anatomy in academic centers was not met. Mandatory registration provides valuable insight into ERCP performance rates.

Fistulotomy versus standard cannulation as the primary technique for all patients undergoing ERCP with a native papilla: a protocol for a single center randomized controlled trial

Background

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is an indispensable procedure for the management of pancreaticobiliary diseases. Post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) is the most common serious adverse event. One risk factor of PEP is difficulty achieving biliary access. The conventional ERCP technique involves the cannulation of the bile duct via the ampulla of Vater, followed by sphincter incision using electrocautery. Conventionally, if the standard method fails then, precut techniques have been utilized as an alternative means of gaining biliary access. The needle-knife fistulotomy (NKF) technique involves identifying the intra-duodenal segment of the bile duct and uses a needle knife to incise directly into the bile duct. This is done above and away from the natural office, thus minimizing thermal damage which may result in PEP. Our recent prospective study of 50 patients demonstrated the safety and feasibility of the NKF precut technique as a primary means of gaining biliary access. The next step is to conduct a randomized controlled trial to compare the efficacy and safety of initial NKF to the standard cannulation in a non-selective patient population undergoing ERCP.

Methods

A randomized control trial of 538 consecutive, non-selective patients with pancreaticobiliary disease undergoing ERCP at a tertiary care center in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, will be conducted. Patients will be randomized to one of two treatment groups, standard cannulation or NKF. The primary outcome of the study will be the incidence of PEP. Secondary outcomes will include rate of successful cannulation of the common bile duct (CBD), time to successful cannulation, total procedure time, difficulty of cannulation, and incidence of complications.

Discussion

This RCT will yield important answers regarding the efficacy and safety of initial NKF to the standard cannulation in a non-selective patient population undergoing ERCP. The results of our study could alter ERCP practices and outcomes if NKF is shown to reduce PEP risk.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT04559867. Registered on September 23, 2020

Complications of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography in Patients With Previous Bariatric Surgery: A National Inpatient Sample Analysis, 2007-2013

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery (BS) has been proven to be effective in the treatment of obesity and weight-related diseases, but the anatomic changes after BS make endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) technically challenging. This study aims to assess the safety and clinical outcomes of ERCP in patients with previous BS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample from 2007 to 2013 was queried for hospitalizations of adults over 18 years of age with procedure diagnoses of ERCP. Those with prior BS were selected as cases and those without BS as controls. Case-control matching at a ratio of 1 case to 2 controls was performed based on sex, age, race, comorbidities, and obesity. The primary outcomes were inpatient mortality and ERCP-related complications. Multivariate regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors associated to the primary outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 1,068,862 weighted hospitalizations with ERCP procedure codes were identified. Of these, 6689 with BS were selected as cases, and 13,246 were matched as controls. The reason for hospital admission was most often biliary stone disease (60.7% vs. 55.5%), followed by malignancy (3.5% vs. 12.1%) and cholangitis (7.7% vs. 4.5%) with and without BS, P<0.05. The BS group had lower rates of post-ERCP pancreatitis (0.1% vs. 1.3%), cholecystitis (0.1% vs. 0.3%), bleeding (1.0% vs. 1.4%), and inpatient mortality (0.2% vs. 0.5%), but had higher rates of cholangitis (5.0% vs. 3.7%) and systemic infections (6.2% vs. 4.8%), all P<0.05.

CONCLUSIONS

BS group had lower post-ERCP pancreatitis, cholecystitis and bleeding while had more cholangitis, and systemic infection compared with those without BS. Also, BS was independently associated with reduced inpatient mortality after adjusted for age, race, and comorbidity.

Use of fully covered self-expanding metal biliary stents for managing endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy related bleeding

Background and study aims  Endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy (EBS) related-bleeding is a common adverse event related to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Traditionally, endoscopic modalities such as epinephrine injection, cauterization, and balloon tamponade have been used for management. Recently, use of a fully covered self-expandable metal stent (FCSEMS) to manage EBS-related bleeding has gained popularity. However, data regarding its use are limited to small case series. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of FCSEMS placement for the treatment of EBS-related bleeding. Patients and methods  All patients referred to our center from October 2014 to November 2019 who had an FCSEMS placed for EBS-related bleeding were included. FCSEMS was placed either for primary control of bleeding or after failure of other traditional endoscopic hemostasis techniques at the discretion of the endoscopist. Data was collected regarding patient demographics, procedural characteristics, clinical and technical success rates of FCSEMS, as well as adverse events. Results  A total of 97 patients underwent placement of FCSEMS for EBS-related bleeding, of which 76.3 % had immediate bleeding and 23.7 % had delayed bleeding. Mean age was 67.2 years and 47.4 % were males. Seven patients who had immediate EBS-related bleeding at index ERCP underwent other endoscopic therapies prior to placement of FCSEMS for rebleeding. The technical success rate for FCSEMS placement was 100 % and the rebleeding rate was 6.2 %. Four patients with FCSEMS placement developed pancreatitis and four had stent migration. Conclusions  Our findings suggest that FCSEMS is a highly effective treatment modality for managing EBS-related bleeding and has an acceptable safety profile.

Sequential endoscopist-driven phone calls improve the capture rate of adverse events after ERCP: a prospective study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

ERCP is a high-risk endoscopic procedure, yet reports of ERCP-related adverse events are largely limited to early adverse events based on immediate postprocedure assessment. We hypothesize that immediate/1-day follow-up underestimates the true adverse event rate, and later follow-up calls may enable a more accurate assessment of adverse events, leading to enhanced postprocedural patient care.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing ERCP at our tertiary care academic medical center from 2018 to 2019 were analyzed. Patients were encouraged to contact us with postprocedure symptoms, and they received phone calls at 1, 7, 14, and 30 days after the procedure using a standardized script to assess for delayed adverse events and unplanned health care encounters.

RESULTS

This study is notable for a high rate of successful patient follow-up at day 1 (94%) and day 7 (93%). The overall adverse event rate was 1.9% immediately postprocedure, 3.3% on day 1, and 9.8% on day 7. Increased detection of adverse events was accomplished by the day 7 call relative to the day 1 call (pancreatitis 2% vs 0.5%; bleeding 0.5% vs 0.2%; infection 0.9% vs 0.5%). Follow-up calls at 14 and 30 days were lower yield for detection of post-ERCP adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Initial postprocedure assessment and day 1 follow-up calls underestimate adverse event rates/unplanned health care encounters related to ERCP, due to delayed evolution of some adverse events. The day 7 call is optimal in that it resulted in a >3-fold higher rate of detection of adverse events and successful direction of over 10% of symptomatic patients to appropriate assessment and follow-up health care.

Subcutaneous emphysema, pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum and pneumoperitoneum after upper gastrointestinal endoscopy

Upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopies are performed for several reasons. The overuse of endoscopy has negative effects on the quality of healthcare and pressurises endoscopy services. It also results in the complications. These complications include pneumoperitoneum, pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous pneumomediastinum. However, it is worth noting that these complications rarely occur during endoscopy of the upper GI tract. These complications, when they occur, indicate perforation of the retroperitoneal space or peritoneal cavity. In this article, we discuss a case of pneumoperitoneum, pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema after upper GI endoscopy.

Prevalence of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Complications and Amylase Sensitivity for Predicting Pancreatitis in ERCP Patients

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a complex procedure that is widely used for diagnosis and treatment of biliary and pancreatic diseases. With respect to its growing application, the present study aims to evaluate ERCP outcomes and complications. This cross-sectional study was performed using the data from 824 patients who underwent ERCP during 2014-2017 in Qom Shahid Beheshti hospital. Data were collected by a checklist and analyzed using SPSS V22. Among 824 patients, 397 (48.18%) were male and 427 (51.82%) were female with a mean age of 47 ± 6 years. The most common indications for ERCP were choledocholithiasis (78.28%) and cholestasis (20.27%), respectively. Total prevalence of complications was 15.66% and mortality rate was 0.72%. The most common complications were pancreatitis (9.59%) and bleeding (3.28%), respectively. A serum amylase level of greater than 160 could predict pancreatitis with sensitivity of 93.3% and specificity of 90.3%. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography-related complications are inevitable but can be controlled by early diagnosis and clinical experience. Severe complications and high-risk patients may increase the mortality of the procedure.

The efficacy of pineapple juice as a negative oral contrast agent in magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography

Background

During magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), the pancreatobiliary ducts can be obscured by the high-intensity signal from the stomach and duodenum. Pineapple juice may be an alternative to commercially available negative contrast agents, but has not been evaluated locally.

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy of a local, off-the-shelf pineapple juice preparation as a negative oral contrast agent for MRCP.

Method

An observational, analytical study was conducted during January–December 2017. A 1.5 Tesla MRCP sequence was performed immediately before and after ingestion of 250 mL of a local, commercially-available pineapple juice preparation. Image evaluation was performed by two radiologists with independent, blind assessment of gastric/duodenal signal intensity and biliary /pancreatic duct visibility, before and after pineapple juice.

Results

Fifty adult patients (F = 44, 88%) with median age 44 years (IQR: 34.75, 57) were included. After pineapple juice administration, there was significant measured (1661.51 vs. 1409.94, p < 0.01) and perceived (2.16 vs. 2.72, p < 0.01) duodenal signal reduction but no significant change in measured (1081.17 vs. 1044.38, p = 0.34) or perceived (2.73 vs. 2.84, p = 0.14) gastric signal intensity. Visibility of the common bile duct was significantly improved (3.67 vs. 3.86, p < 0.01), whilst that of the main pancreatic duct showed no significant change (2.92 vs. 2.86, p = 0.44).

Conclusion

The local pineapple juice preparation used in this study is an effective, affordable and natural negative oral contrast agent for enhancement of MRCP images, and specifically improves visualisation of the common bile duct.

Fistulotomy-First Approach is Safe and Effective in Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiography: Results of a Prospective Case Series

Background and Aims

The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of using needle-knife fistulotomy (NKF) as a primary cannulation technique in patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with a native papilla.

Patients and Methods

This prospective feasibility study enrolled 50 patients between December 2018 and June 2019. The procedure was performed by two expert endoscopists (R.B. and L.H.). The primary outcome was the incidence of post-ERCP pancreatitis. Other variables assessed included the success rate of cannulation of the common bile duct (CBD), time to successful cannulation, and incidence of adverse events.

Results

Between December 2018 and June 2019, 50 patients enrolled in the study. The mean age was 63.4 years (standard deviation 18.1), and there were 26 females. Indications included biliary obstruction secondary to malignancy (n = 14) and choledocholithiasis (n = 36). Successful cannulation of the CBD through the fistulotomy occurred in 49/50 cases. The time to successful cannulation was 5.1 minutes (range 0.5 to 23 minutes). Mild acute pancreatitis occurred in two cases (4%). Post-ERCP bleeding occurred in three patients (6%)

Conclusions

In this pilot study, NKF was used as the primary biliary access technique and it was demonstrated that it appears to be at least as safe as the traditional access technique with a sphinctertome. However, its role as a primary cannulation technique requires further investigation with multicenter, randomized control studies.

Association between contrast-induced nephrotoxicity and contrast enhanced computed tomography followed by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

PURPOSE

To determine if endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) performed within 72 h after contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT) increases contrast-induced nephrotoxicity (CIN) risk in patients with abdominal complaints.

METHOD

This single-center retrospective cohort study included consecutive adult patients with abdominal complaints who underwent CECT between October 1, 2016, and June 30, 2019 at an emergency department (ED). CIN was diagnosed based on serum creatinine (SCr) level >0.5 mg/dL within 72 h after CECT or that increased >25 % compared to pre-CECT level. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine independent risk factors for CIN, including age, sex, body mass index, comorbidities, medication, pre-CECT SCr level >1.5 mg/dL, and ERCP performed within 72 h after CECT. For persistent CIN, SCr level was obtained after 3 months at the earliest and compared to data obtained within 72 h after ERCP and CECT.

RESULTS

Of 1457 patients with CECT, 90 (6.2 %) underwent ERCP within 72 h after CECT and 93 (6.4 %) developed CIN. Multivariate analysis revealed that ERCP performed within 72 h after CECT (odds ratio, 3.31; 95 % confidence interval, 1.74, 6.29; p < 0.001) and pre-CECT SCr level >1.5 mg/dL (odds ratio, 9.86; 95 % confidence interval, 5.08, 19.2; p < 0.001) were independent risk factors for CIN. Of 93 patients with CIN, 10 (11 %) had persistent CIN. No specific factors were correlated with persistent CIN in the 3-month time frame.

CONCLUSION

ERCP performed within 72 h after CECT and pre-CECT SCr level >1.5 mg/dL are associated with CIN development.

Sedation-related complications during anesthesiologist-administered sedation for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: a prospective study

Background

Patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) require adequate sedation or general anesthesia. To date, there is lack of consensus regarding who should administer sedation in these patients. Several studies have investigated the safety and efficacy of non-anesthesiologist-administered sedation for ERCP; however, data regarding anesthesiologist-administered sedation remain limited. This prospective single-center study investigated the safety and efficacy of anesthesiologist-administered sedation and the rate of successful performed ERCP procedures.

Methods

The study included 200 patients who underwent ERCP following anesthesiologist-administered sedation with propofol and remifentanil. Procedural data, oxygen saturation, systolic blood pressure (SBP), heart rate, recovery score, patient and endoscopist satisfaction, as well as 30-day mortality and morbidity data were analyzed.

Results

Sedation-related complications occurred in 36 of 200 patients (18%) and included hypotension (SBP < 90 mmHg) and hypoxemia (O₂ saturation < 90%) in 18 patients (9%) each. Most events were minor and did not necessitate discontinuation of the procedure. However, ERCP was terminated in 2 patients (1%) secondary to sedation-related complications. Successful cannulation was performed in all patients. The mean duration of the examination was 25 ± 16 min. Mean recovery time was 14 ± 10 min, and high post-procedural satisfaction was observed in both, patients (mean visual analogue scale [VAS] 9.6 ± 0.8) and endoscopists (mean VAS 9.3 ± 1.3).

Conclusion

This study suggests that anesthesiologist-administered sedation is safe in patients undergoing ERCP and is associated with a high rate of successful ERCP, shorter procedure time, and more rapid post-anesthesia recovery, with high patient and endoscopist satisfaction.

Predictors of 30-Day Readmission After Inpatient Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: A Single-Center Experience

INTRODUCTION

The 30-day hospital readmission rate is a nationally recognized quality measure. Nearly one-fifth of medicare beneficiaries are hospitalized within 30 days of discharge, resulting in a cost of over $26 billion dollars annually. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) remains the endoscopic procedure with the highest risk of morbidity and mortality. We set out to analyze the clinical characteristics predictive of 30-day readmission after an inpatient ERCP.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective chart review of all inpatient ERCPs performed at our institution between 12/1/2014 and 9/30/2018. Clinical characteristics and outcomes of these patients were compared to determine predictors of 30-day readmission.

RESULTS

A total of 497 inpatient ERCP procedures done for biliary or pancreatic indications, constituting 483 patients, were identified. There were 52 readmissions that occurred among 48 patients within 30 days of discharge. Basic demographic characteristics were similar between both groups. Comorbidities were significantly higher in those who were readmitted. Multivariate analysis revealed significantly greater odds of readmission with prior liver transplantation (OR = 4.15), cirrhosis (OR = 3.20), and pancreatic duct stent placement (OR = 2.56). Subgroup analysis for biliary indications revealed cholecystectomy before discharge and early ERCP to be protective against readmission.

CONCLUSION

A history of liver transplantation and cirrhosis are predictive of increased 30-day readmission rates after an inpatient ERCP. Pancreatic duct stent placement is associated with readmission; however, this phenomenon is likely related to stenting for pancreatic endotherapy. Cholecystectomy before discharge and early ERCP are predictive of decreased need for readmission in procedures done for biliary indications.

The diagnostic work-up and outcomes of 'presumed' idiopathic acute pancreatitis: A post-hoc analysis of a multicentre observational cohort

INTRODUCTION

After standard diagnostic work-up, the aetiology of acute pancreatitis remains unknown in 16-27% of cases, a condition referred to as idiopathic acute pancreatitis (IAP). Determining the aetiology of pancreatitis is essential, as it may direct treatment in the acute phase and guides interventions to prevent recurrent pancreatitis.

METHODS

Between 2008 and 2015, patients with acute pancreatitis were registered prospectively in 19 Dutch hospitals. Patients who had a negative initial diagnostic work-up with regard to the underlying aetiology of their pancreatitis were labelled 'presumed' IAP. The aim of this study was to assess the use of diagnostic modalities and their yield to establish an aetiology in 'presumed' IAP, and to assess recurrence rates both with and without treatment.

RESULTS

Out of the 1632 registered patients, 191 patients had a first episode of 'presumed' IAP, of whom 176 (92%) underwent additional diagnostic testing: CT (n = 124, diagnostic yield 8%), EUS (n = 62, yield 35%), MRI/MRCP (n = 56, yield 33%), repeat ultrasound (n = 97, yield 21%), IgG4 (n = 54, yield 9%) and ERCP (n = 15, yield 47%). In 64 of 176 patients (36%) an aetiological diagnosis was established, mostly biliary (n = 39). In 13 out of 176 of patients (7%) a neoplasm was diagnosed. If additional diagnostic workup revealed an aetiology, the recurrence rate was lower in the treated patients than in the patients without a definite aetiology (15% versus 43%, p = 0.014).

CONCLUSION

Additional diagnostic testing revealed an aetiology in one-third of 'presumed' IAP patients. The aetiology found was mostly biliary, but occasionally neoplasms were found. Identification of an aetiology with subsequent treatment reduced the rate of recurrence.

Inutility of endoscopic sphincterotomy to prevent pancreatitis after biliary metal stent placement in the patients without pancreatic duct obstruction

Background: The incidence of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) has been reported to be significantly higher in patients without main pancreatic duct (MPD) obstruction who undergo transpapillary biliary metal stent (MS) placement than in those with ordinary ERCP setting.Objective: To evaluate the benefit of endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) prior to MS placement in preventing PEP in patients with distal malignant biliary obstruction (MBO) without MPD obstruction.Materials and methods: In total, 160 patients who underwent initial MS placement for MBO were enrolled. Eighty-two patients underwent ES immediately prior to MS placement, whereas 78 underwent MS placement without ES. An inverse probability of treatment weighting method was adopted to adjust the differences of the patients' characteristics. The primary outcome was the incidence of PEP. The secondary outcomes included the incidence of other adverse events (bleeding, cholangitis, perforation and stent dislocation) and time to recurrent biliary obstruction.Results: The incidence of PEP was 26.8% in the ES and 23.1% in the non-ES (unadjusted odds ratio [OR] [95%CI]: 1.22, [0.60-2.51], adjusted OR [95%CI]: 1.23, [0.53-2.81], p = .63). Logistic-regression analysis revealed no factors that could be attributed to the occurrence of PEP. The incidence of other adverse events was not different between the groups. The median time to recurrent biliary obstruction was 131 (2-465) days and 200 (4-864) days in the ES and non-ES, respectively (p = .215).Conclusions: ES prior to MS placement for patients with distal MBO without MPD obstruction does not reduce the incidence of PEP.

Complicaciones y factores de riesgo en pacientes sometidos a colagiopancreatografía retrógrada endoscópica en una clínica de tercer nivel de Medellín desde el 2014 hasta el 2017

Introducción. La colangiopancreatografía retrógrada endoscópica es la herramienta de elección para el manejo de una gran cantidad de enfermedades pancreáticas y biliares. Al ser un procedimiento invasivo, trae consigo riesgos que aumentan la morbimortalidad en los pacientes en quienes se practica. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar las complicaciones más prevalentes relacionadas con el procedimiento, de los pacientes de una institución de tercer nivel de Medellín entre los años 2014 y 2017. Métodos. Se presenta un estudio observacional, retrospectivo y analítico. Se analizaron las historias clínicas de los pacientes sometidos a colangiopancreatografía retrógrada endoscópica con diagnóstico de enfermedades biliares y pancreáticas. La información fue analizada usando estadística descriptiva e inferencial, mediante análisis univariado y multivariado, y se calculó la razón de momios (odds ratio, OR) con un intervalo de confianza del 95 %; se tomó como significativo un valor de p inferior a 0,25 en los análisis bivariados. Resultados. En los 1.546 pacientes sometidos a colangiopancreatografía retrógrada endoscópica, la edad promedio fue de 57,6 ± 19.3 años y el 59,1 % eran mujeres. Las complicaciones identificadas fueron: pancreatitis en 57 pacientes (3,7 %), sangrado en 28 (1,8 %), perforación en 8 (0,5 %) y mortalidad no discriminada de 42 pacientes (2,7 %). Como factores de riesgo con significancia estadística, se encontraron la papilotomía y el contraste del conducto de Wirsung (OR=3 y OR=3,55, respectivamente). Discusión. Los resultados obtenidos se encuentran en concordancia con los de la literatura mundial, con tasas de complicaciones y mortalidad similares. Por otra parte, el perfil sociodemográfico de la población de estudio difiere de las cifras internacionales, con predominancia de la enfermedad estudiada en edades mayores y con mayor cantidad de comorbilidades.

Natural history of asymptomatic bile duct stones and association of endoscopic treatment with clinical outcomes

BACKGROUND

Due to increasing opportunities for abdominal imaging studies, bile duct stones are occasionally diagnosed without any symptoms. However, there has been no consensus on the management of asymptomatic bile duct stones. We conducted a retrospective longitudinal cohort study to investigate the natural history of asymptomatic bile duct stones and clinical outcomes according to the timing of endoscopic removal.

METHODS

We identified consecutive patients who were diagnosed with asymptomatic common bile duct stones and categorized into those who were followed up with stones in situ (wait-and-see group) and those who received early endoscopic stone removal (intervention group). Cumulative incidence functions of biliary complications were estimated and compared between the groups.

RESULTS

We included 191 patients (114 patients in the wait-and-see group and 77 patients in the intervention group). In the wait-and-see group, the cumulative incidence of biliary complications was 6.1% at 1 year, 11% at 3 years, and 17% at 5 years. Asymptomatic disappearance of stones was observed in 22 patients (19%). Procedure-related adverse events of early endoscopic stone removal of asymptomatic stones were observed in 25 (32%) patients including 4 (5.2%) with severe pancreatitis. The cumulative incidence function of biliary complications did not differ by treatment strategies (P = 0.55).

CONCLUSIONS

Biliary complications occurred in a substantial proportion of patients with asymptomatic bile duct stones, but early endoscopic removal appeared to have little effect on the prevention of further biliary complications. Given the risk of procedure-related pancreatitis, the wait-and-see strategy may become a management option of asymptomatic stones.

Early pancreatic stent placement in wire-guided biliary cannulation: A multicenter retrospective study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Guidewire insertion to a pancreatic duct under wire-guided cannulation (WGC) during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is associated with a high incidence of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP). Pancreatic stent placement followed by WGC (PS-WGC) is considered for these cases to reduce PEP. This study was aimed to examine the effectiveness of PS-WGC compared with repeated WGC.

METHODS

The consecutive data of patients without history of ERCP who underwent ERCP for biliary intervention were retrospectively collected from five centers. Patients without guidewire insertion to the pancreatic duct were excluded. Pancreatic stent was immediately placed after guidewire insertion to the pancreatic duct in the PS-WGC group. The association between the method of biliary cannulation (PS-WGC or repeated WGC) and PEP was analyzed using multivariable logistic regression model.

RESULTS

A total of 590 patients (183 in the PS-WGC and 407 in the repeated WGC group) were included. PS-WGC decreased PEP (8.7% vs 19%, P = 0.001) and improved its severity (moderate and severe PEP; 2.2% vs 6.4%, P = 0.04) compared with repeated WGC. PS-WGC was associated with reduction of PEP in the multivariable model (Odds ratio 0.31, P < 0.001). The rates of difficult cannulation and overall successful biliary cannulation were not different between the two groups (66% vs 70%, P = 0.39 and 98% vs 96%, P = 0.21 in the PS-WGC and repeated WGC group, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Pancreatic stent placement followed by WGC reduced PEP in patients with guidewire insertion to the pancreatic duct during WGC for native papilla compared with repeated WGC.

Endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation without sphincterotomy for users of antithrombotic agents: A multicenter retrospective study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

With an aging population, an increasing number of individuals on antithrombotic agents are diagnosed with large bile duct stones. Studies have shown the effectiveness of endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation (EPLBD) for removal of large bile duct stones. EPLBD without endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) may reduce the risk of procedure-related bleeding, but the safety of this procedure for users of antithrombotic agents remains unclear.

METHODS

In this multicenter retrospective study, we included patients who underwent EPLBD without EST for bile duct stones between March 2008 and December 2017. We compared adverse events and other clinical outcomes between users and non-users of antithrombotic agents (antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants).

RESULTS

We analyzed a total of 144 patients (47 users and 97 non-users of antithrombotic agents). Among the users, the agents were continued in 13% and were replaced with heparin in 62% during the periprocedural period. We did not observe clinically significant bleeding and thrombotic events irrespective of the use of antithrombotic agents. Overall rate of early adverse events did not differ between users and non-users (6.4% and 7.2%, P = 0.99). Procedural outcomes did not differ between the groups (necessity for lithotripsy, 28% vs. 29%; and complete stone removal in a single session, 72% vs. 71%, for users and non-users, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation without EST may be done without a substantial increase in procedure-related bleeding for users of antithrombotic agents. A larger study is required to refine the management strategy for those agents during the periprocedural period.

Endoscopic transpapillary drainage in disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome after acute pancreatitis and trauma: long-term outcomes in 31 patients

Background

Conventionally, disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome is treated surgically. Endoscopic management is associated with lesser morbidity and mortality than that observed with surgery and shows similar success rates. However, limited data are available in this context. We evaluated the efficacy of endotherapeutic management for this syndrome.

Methods

We prospectively obtained data of patients with disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome between September 2008 and January 2016. Demographic and clinical data were assessed, and factors affecting clinical outcomes were statistically analyzed.

Results

Thirty-one patients underwent 40 endoscopic transpapillary procedures, and 1 patient developed an infection after prosthesis insertion. Etiological contributors to disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome were abdominal trauma (52%) and acute necrotizing pancreatitis (48%). The median interval between the appearance of pancreatic leaks and disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome was 6.6 months (range 0.5–84 months). The median follow-up after the last treatment procedure was 38 months (range 17–99 months). Patients with complete main pancreatic duct disruption in the body/tail showed a low risk of pancreatic atrophy (P = 0.009). This study highlighted the significant correlation between endoscopic transpapillary drainage and clinical success (P = 0.014).

Conclusions

Disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome is not an uncommon sequel of pancreatic injury, and much of the delayed diagnosis is attributable to a lack of knowledge regarding this disease. Endoscopic transpapillary intervention with ductal stenting is an effective and safe treatment for this condition.

Post-ERCP Bleeding in the Era of Multiple Antiplatelet Agents

Background/Aims

This study aimed to determine the risk of post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (post-ERCP) bleeding among patients taking antiplatelet agents (APAs), particularly in the era of multiple APAs.

Methods

The primary outcomes were the frequency, type, and severity of ERCP-related bleeding according to the use of APAs.

Results

The frequencies of post-ERCP bleeding among the four different groups were 16 of 2,083 (0.8%) in the no drug group, 12 of 256 (4.7%) in the aspirin group, 3 of 48 (6.3%) in the single APA group, and 4 of 48 (8.3%) in the multiple APA group (p＜0.001). In the univariate analysis, post-ERCP bleeding was associated with age, pull-type sphincterotomy, and APA and was inversely associated with balloon dilation of the biliary orifice. In the multivariate analysis, pull-type sphincterotomy (odds ratio [OR], 7.829; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.411 to 43.453; p=0.019) and country (Korea: OR, 0.124; 95% CI, 0.042 to 0.361; p＜0.001) were associated with post-ERCP bleeding.

Conclusions

The frequency of post-ERCP bleeding was statistically higher in patients on any APA within 6 days prior to ERCP. However, in the multivariate analysis, APA use was not associated with post-ERCP bleeding. Until a large, adequately powered study to detect differences is performed, caution is recommended when considering invasive procedures during ERCP in patients on APAs.

Prevention of post-sphincterotomy bleeding by proton pump inhibitor: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

Post-endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) bleeding is one of the most frequent complications of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Although the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) reduces the risk of peptic ulcer bleeding, their role in preventing EST bleeding has not been evaluated. This study aimed to assess the use of pre-emptive PPIs in patients undergoing EST.

METHODS

This was an investigator-initiated, open-label, randomized study. Consecutive patients scheduled to undergo ERCP and EST were enrolled after excluding those who had previous EST or used acid-suppression agents. Eligible patients were randomized to receive either PPI or standard care. The PPI group received intravenous esomeprazole 4 h before the EST and then every 12 h for 1 day, followed by high-dose oral esomeprazole for 10 days. All patients were followed up for 30 days. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with combined immediate and delayed overt post-EST bleeding.

RESULTS

Altogether 125 patients (60 in the PPI arm and 65 in the standard care arm) who had undergone EST were analyzed. Immediate bleeding was noted in nine (15.0%) patients in the PPI group and four (6.2%) in the standard care group (P = 0.14). Overt delayed post-EST bleeding was seen in two (3.3%) and five (7.7%) patients in PPI and standard care arms, respectively (P = 0.44). There were no significant differences in other outcomes, including a decrease in hemoglobin of >20 g/L, the need for blood transfusion, length of hospital stay and 30-day mortality.

CONCLUSION

Pre-emptive PPI did not reduce the risk of post-EST bleeding.

Mechanisms and Management of Acute Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis represents a disorder characterized by acute necroinflammatory changes of the pancreas and is histologically characterized by acinar cell destruction. Diagnosed clinically with the Revised Atlanta Criteria, and with alcohol and cholelithiasis/choledocholithiasis as the two most prominent antecedents, acute pancreatitis ranks first amongst gastrointestinal diagnoses requiring admission and 21st amongst all diagnoses requiring hospitalization with estimated costs approximating 2.6 billion dollars annually. Complications arising from acute pancreatitis follow a progression from pancreatic/peripancreatic fluid collections to pseudocysts and from pancreatic/peripancreatic necrosis to walled-off necrosis that typically occur over the course of a 4-week interval. Treatment relies heavily on fluid resuscitation and nutrition with advanced endoscopic techniques and cholecystectomy utilized in the setting of gallstone pancreatitis. When necessity dictates a drainage procedure (persistent abdominal pain, gastric or duodenal outlet obstruction, biliary obstruction, and infection), an endoscopic ultrasound with advanced endoscopic techniques and technology rather than surgical intervention is increasingly being utilized to manage symptomatic pseudocysts and walled-off pancreatic necrosis by performing a cystogastrostomy.

Systematic review of anaesthetic medication for ERCP based on a network meta-analysis

AIMS

We performed a systematic review of various anaesthetic medications for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and aimed to make a comprehensive comparison based on a network meta-analysis.

METHODS

We searched globally recognized electronic databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Central and EMBASE, to retrieve relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of anaesthetic medications for ERCP. Network meta-analysis was conducted by evaluating the procedure time, adverse effects and drug requirements. The cumulative probability P value was utilized to rank the medications under examination.

RESULTS

Seventeen RCTs that examined 1877 patients were included in this research. Under good convergence and efficiency, data analysis was performed using a consistency model. For the comparison of procedure times, we found that a combination of dexmedetomidine and ketamine (P = 0.19) or propofol plus pethidine (P = 0.18) seemed to be the two best medications for reducing procedure time. Additionally, midazolam combined with dexmedetomidine plus pethidine seemed to be the safest application for ERCP (P = 0.36). Propofol plus alfentanil also exhibited a good safety value (P = 0.28). For evaluation of drug requirements, the whole network connection could not be established; thus, comparisons in two subgroups were conducted. The results showed that midazolam combined with dexmedetomidine plus pethidine (P = 0.41) and propofol plus refentanil (P = 0.94) were superior to others in decreasing drug requirements.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the objective results and our conclusions, we deemed that a combination of midazolam and dexmedetomidine was recommended, and propofol plus opioids also revealed great clinical value. However, we are still expecting more clinical research in the future.

Cost-effective Decisions in Detecting Silent Common Bile Duct Gallstones During Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of routine intraoperative ultrasonography (IOUS), cholangiography (IOC), or expectant management without imaging (EM) for investigation of clinically silent common bile duct (CBD) stones during laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

BACKGROUND

The optimal algorithm for the evaluation of clinically silent CBD stones during routine cholecystectomy is unclear.

METHODS

A decision tree model of CBD exploration was developed to determine the optimal diagnostic approach based on preoperative probability of choledocholithiasis. The model was parameterized with meta-analyses of previously published studies. The primary outcome was incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained from each diagnostic strategy. A secondary outcome was the percentage of missed stones. Costs were from the perspective of the third party payer and sensitivity analyses were performed on all model parameters.

RESULTS

In the base case analysis with a prevalence of stones of 9%, IOUS was the optimal strategy, yielding more QALYs (0.9858 vs 0.9825) at a lower expected cost ($311 vs $574) than EM. IOC yielded more QALYs than EM in the base case (0.9854) but at a much higher cost ($1122). IOUS remained dominant as long as the preoperative probability of stones was above 3%; EM was the optimal strategy if the probability was less than 3%. The percentage of missed stones was 1.5% for IOUS, 1.8% for IOC and 9% for EM.

CONCLUSIONS

In the detection and resultant management of CBD stones for the majority of patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, IOUS is cost-effective relative to IOC and EM.

The "Scope" of Post-ERCP Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is the most common adverse event of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, with the potential for clinically significant morbidity and mortality. Several patient and procedural risk factors have been identified that increase the risk of post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis (PEP). Considerable research efforts have identified several pharmacologic and procedural interventions that can drastically affect the incidence of PEP. This review article addresses the underlying mechanisms at play for the development of PEP, identifying patient and procedural risk factors and meaningful use of risk-stratification information, and details current interventions aimed at reducing the risk of this complication.

Complications of ERCP

Even though considered safe, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is among the endoscopic procedures associated with the highest rate of complications. Post ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) is the most common complication of ERCP. Several independent risk factors have been associated with PEP. Prophylactic PD stenting has been shown to be highly effective in preventing PEP. More recent studies have suggested that NSAIDs, especially rectal indomethacin, could by itself be effective in preventing PEP. However, head to head RCTs comparing PD stents with NSAIDs would be required to confirm this. Other complications include ERCP induced bleeding, perforation, and cholangitis. Bleeding is related to morphological, procedural, and patient related factors. Early identification and correction of the risk factors are of paramount importance in preventing bleeding. Risk of infection is particularly high during ERCP. It is important to ensure complete drainage of obstructed biliary system in order to reduce the risk of post-ERCP cholangitis.

[Endoscopic Duodenal Snare Papillectomy Induced Complication: Prevention and Management]

Tumors of the major duodenal papilla are being recognized more often because of the increased use of diagnostic upper endoscopy and ERCP. The standard of management for ampullary tumor is local surgical excision or pancreaticoduodenectomy, but these procedures are associated with significant mortality, as well as post-operative and long-term morbidity. Endoscopic snare papillectomy was introduced as an alternative to surgery, but post-procedure complications are serious drawback. The most serious complications are perforation, delayed bleeding and pancreatitis. Identification of high risk patients, early recognition of complications, and aggressive management abates frequency and severity. Prevention and management of endoscopic duodenal papillectomy-induced complications will be reviewed in this article.

The impact of brush cytology from endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) on patient management at a UK teaching hospital

INTRODUCTION

Patients with suspected pancreaticobiliary cancers frequently undergo endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to obtain brush cytology for confirmatory diagnosis. The outcome of this often leads to the management of the patient and can avoid more invasive investigations. There is a wide range of sensitivities and specificities reported in the literature.

AIMS

To determine the accuracy of the brush cytology obtained at ERCP by performing a retrospective audit of all patients admitted to Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospital for ERCP during 2008-2013. Also, to evaluate the impact of cytology results on patient care following ERCP.

METHOD

Data were collected from 4 January 2008 to 27 December 2013. This involved analysing EndoSoft (the in-house software for endoscopic data entry), Pathnet (the pathology database) and Electronic Patient Records.

RESULTS

162 patients underwent brush cytology during ERCP. 58 patients had positive cytology. With intention-to-treat analysis, sensitivity was 54.7%, specificity was 100.0% and negative predictive value was 53.9% with a positive predictive value of 100%. Patients with a positive brush cytology result required fewer investigations compared with patients with a negative cytology result.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results compare favourably with previous studies in the field. Brush cytology has been ignored in recent times due to perceived poor results and efficacy. Our audit shows that it can reduce the number of investigations required to reach a diagnosis of malignancy and so is a valuable tool in the diagnosis of pancreaticobiliary malignancies. However, better guidance on preparation of samples for cytology is needed to reduce the number of insufficient samples.

Risk factors for post-ERCP pancreatitis and hyperamylasemia: A retrospective single-center study

OBJECTIVE

With an increased use of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), post-ERCP complications have attracted much attention. We aimed to identify independent risk factors of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) and hyperamylasemia, and to develop a simple scoring system of the factors contributing to the clinical prevention against PEP.

METHODS

A retrospective single-center analysis was performed in 4234 ERCP procedures between September 2007 and December 2012. Patient-related and procedure-related risk factors for PEP and post-ERCP hyperamylasemia were identified by univariate and multivariate regression analyses. A scoring system was developed based on the independent risk factors.

RESULTS

PEP occurred in 226 (5.3%) ERCP procedures and hyperamylasemia in 774 (18.3%) procedures. Female gender (odds ratio [OR] 1.449), first-time ERCP (OR 1.745), latent jaundice (OR 1.917), difficult cannulation (OR 3.317) and pancreatography (OR 1.823) were all proven to be significant risk factors for predicting PEP. In addition, difficult cannulation (OR 1.990) and pancreatography (OR 2.009), age <60 years (OR 1.294), prior diabetes (OR 0.614), biliary duct stent placement (OR 1.884) and nasobiliary drainage (OR 1.613) were associated with developing hyperamylasemia. Prophylactic pancreatic duct stent (PS) might prevent against PEP in significantly high-risk patients (score ≥6).

CONCLUSIONS

Both patient-related and procedure-related risk factors are important for predicting PEP and post-ERCP hyperamylasemia. Technical procedures, for example, PS, are necessary to prevent PEP in patients at the highest risk.

Pulseless electrical activity arrest due to air embolism during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: a case report and review of the literature

While most gastroenterologists are aware of the more common complications of endoscopy such as bleeding, infection and perforation, air embolism remains an under-recognised and difficult to diagnose problem due to its varying modes of presentation. This is the case of a 55-year-old man with right upper quadrant pain and imaging notable for cholecystitis and choledocholithiasis, who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). During the ERCP, and shortly after a sphincterotomy was performed, he became hypotensive and hypoxic, quickly decompensating into pulseless electrical activity. While advanced cardiac life support was initiated, the patient passed away. Autopsy revealed air in the pulmonary artery suggestive of a pulmonary embolism. While air embolism remains a rare complication of upper endoscopy, increased awareness and prompt recognition of signs that may point to this diagnosis may potentially save lives by allowing for earlier possible interventions.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography-related adverse events: general overview

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) represents a monumental advance in the management of patients with pancreaticobiliary diseases, but is a complex and technically demanding procedure with the highest inherent risk of adverse events of all routine endoscopic procedures. Overall adverse event rates for ERCP are typically reported as 5-10%. The most commonly reported adverse events include post-ERCP pancreatitis, bleeding, perforation, infection (cholangitis), and cardiopulomary or "sedation related" events. This article evaluates patient-related and procedure-related risk factors for ERCP-related adverse events, and discusses strategies for the prevention, diagnosis and management of these events.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)-related adverse events: post-ERCP pancreatitis

Post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis (PEP) is the most common complication of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), and not uncommonly is the reason behind ERCP-related lawsuits. Patients at high risk for PEP include young women with abdominal pain, normal liver tests, and unremarkable imaging. Procedure-related factors include traumatic and persistent cannulation attempts, multiple injections of the pancreatic duct, pancreatic sphincterotomy, and, possibly, use of precut sphincterotomy. Aggressive hydration, use of rectal indomethacin, and prophylactic pancreatic stenting can diminish the risk (and likely severity) of PEP. Though hugely beneficial, these measures do not supersede careful patient selection and technique.

Risk factors for post-ERCP pancreatitis in wire-guided cannulation for therapeutic biliary ERCP

BACKGROUND

Wire-guided cannulation (WGC) was reported to decrease post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP), but risk factors for PEP in WGC are not fully elucidated.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the incidence and risk factors of PEP in WGC.

DESIGN

Single-center retrospective study.

SETTING

Academic center.

PATIENTS

A total of 800 consecutive patients with a native papilla.

INTERVENTIONS

Biliary therapeutic ERCP by using WGC.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

The rate of PEP and its risk factors.

RESULTS

Biliary cannulation was successful by using WGC alone in 70.5%, and the final cannulation rate was 96.1%. Unintentional guidewire insertion and contrast material injection into the pancreatic duct (PD) during cannulation occurred in 55.3% and 21.8%, respectively. The incidence of PEP was 9.5% (mild 5.6%, moderate 2.9%, severe 1.0%). Multivariate analysis revealed a common bile duct (CBD) diameter of <9 mm (odds ratio [OR] 2.03; P = .006) and unintentional guidewire insertion into the PD (OR 2.25; P = .014) as risk factors for PEP. PD opacification was not a risk factor for PEP (OR 1.15; P = .642), but the incremental increase of the PEP rate was seen in patients with CBDs <9 mm: 4.6% without any PD manipulation, 8.3% with contrast material alone, 16.9% with guidewire alone, and 22.1% with both contrast material and guidewire.

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective design in a single center.

CONCLUSION

Unintentional PD manipulation was not uncommon in WGC. Guidewire insertion into the PD and a small CBD were risk factors for PEP in biliary therapeutic ERCP with the use of WGC.

Risk factors for post-ERCP pancreatitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Pancreatitis is the most common and serious complication of diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Prevention strategies targeting risk factors could be important to reduce the rate of post-ERCP pancreatitis. However, the risk factors for post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) are still debated. This systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to identify risk factors for PEP.

METHODS

Medline (PubMed and Ovid), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled trials & Database of Systematic Reviews, Embase, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Springer links and WEB OF SCIENCE were searched for published studies in all languages. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were defined a priori. Eighteen probable risk factors were evaluated, and outcomes were expressed in the case of dichotomous variables, as an odds ratio (OR) (with a 95% confidence interval, (CI)).

RESULTS

When patient-related risk factors were analyzed, the ORs for female gender was 1.46 (95%CI: 1.30-1.64); for previous pancreatitis 2.03 (95%CI: 1.31-3.14); for previous PEP was 2.90 (95%CI: 1.87-4.48); for Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (SOD) was 2.04 (95%CI: 1.73-2.33) and for Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) was 3.01 (95%CI: 1.34-6.77). Four endoscopy-related factors were confirmed: the OR for difficult cannulation was 3.49 (95%CI: 1.364-8.925); for endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) it was 1.39 (95%CI: 1.09-1.79); for precut sphincterotomy it was 2.25 (95%CI: 1.70_2.96); and for main pancreatic duct injection it was 1.58 (95%CI: 1.21-2.08).

CONCLUSIONS

Female gender, previous pancreatitis, previous PEP, SOD, IPMN, difficult cannulation, EST, precut sphincterotomy and main pancreatic duct injection are risk factors for post-ERCP pancreatitis.

Post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis remains the most common complication of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). It is reported to occur in 2–10% of unselected patient samples and up to 40% of high-risk patients. The purpose of this article is to review the evidence behind the known risk factors for post-ERCP pancreatitis, as well as the technical and medical approaches developed to prevent it. There have been many advances in identifying the causes of this condition. Based on this knowledge, a variety of preventive strategies have been developed and studied. The approach to prevention begins with careful patient selection and performing ERCP for specific indications, while considering alternative diagnostic modalities when appropriate. Patients should also be classified by high-risk factors such as young age, female sex, suspected sphincter of Oddi dysfunction, a history of post-ERCP pancreatitis, and normal serum bilirubin, all of which have been identified in numerous research studies. The pathways of injury that are believed to cause post-ERCP pancreatitis eventually lead to the common endpoint of inflammation, and these individual steps can be targeted for preventive therapies through procedural techniques and medical management. This includes the use of a guide wire for cannulation, minimizing the number of cannulation attempts, avoiding contrast injections or trauma to the pancreatic duct, and placement of a temporary pancreatic duct stent in high-risk patients. Administration of rectal non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs) in high-risk patients is the proven pharmacological measure for prevention of post-ERCP pancreatitis. The evidence for or against numerous other attempted therapies is still unclear, and ongoing investigation is required.