Adverse events in older patients undergoing ERCP: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Comparing percutaneous transhepatic papillary balloon dilation with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in elderly patients for common bile duct stones: a 3-year retrospective study

PURPOSE

To assess the safety and effectiveness of PTPBD for CBD stones in the elderly population.

METHODS

Patients aged 60 years or older, who underwent PTPBD or ERCP for CBD stones between January 2021 and December 2023, were included in this study and divided into either the PTPBD group or the ERCP group based on the procedure they underwent. Baseline characteristics, intraoperative and postoperative outcomes were collected and analyzed using SPSS 25.0.

RESULTS

A total of 145 cases were enrolled in the study. In terms of intraoperative complications, one patient in the ERCP group experienced hemorrhaging, while one patient in the PTPBD group experienced acute pain. However, neither of these patients were in a serious condition and only required observation. Stone removal procedures were successfully conducted in approximately 95% of cases in both the PTPBD and ERCP groups (95.8 and 94.8%, respectively; P > 0.999). ERCP failures were observed in one patient with a previous Billroth II anastomosis and two patients with unconventional anatomy of the esophagus and stomach. There was no statistically significant difference in postoperative complications between the PTPBD group and the ERCP group (P > 0.05). The length of hospital stays did not differ between the PTPBD group and the ERCP group (P = 0.537 > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

PTPBD can be used in patients who have complicated anatomical issues that make the ERCP procedure difficult. In comparison, PTPBD is a similarly safe, effective, and minimally invasive technique for extracting CBD stones in elderly patients.

Comparison of laparoscopic common bile duct exploration plus cholecystectomy and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy for elderly patients with common bile duct stones and gallbladder stones

BACKGROUND

Common bile duct (CBD) stones commonly occur in cholecystectomy cases. The management options include laparoscopic CBD exploration (LCBDE) or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Although ERCP is fully developed, it has complications, and LCBDE is a proven alternative. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of these treatments in elderly individuals aged ≥70 years.

METHODS

A retrospective study between January 2015 and July 2022 included 160 elderly patients (aged ≥70 years) diagnosed with cholelithiasis and choledocholithiasis. The patients were divided into 1-stage (LCBDE [n = 80]) or 2-stage (ERCP followed by LC [n = 80]) treatment groups. Data collected encompassed comorbidities, symptoms, bile duct clearance, postoperative complications, and long-term outcomes for systematic analysis.

RESULTS

This study analyzed 160 patients treated for CBD stones, comparing 1-stage and 2-stage groups. The 1-stage group had more female patients than the 2-stage group (57.5% vs 37.5%, respectively). The 1-stage group had a mean age of 80.55 ± 7.00 years, which was higher than the mean age in the 2-stage group. American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and laboratory findings were similar. Pancreatitis and cholangitis occurred after ERCP in the 2-stage group. Stone clearance rates (92.35% [1-stage group] vs 95.00% [2-stage group]) and biliary leakage incidence (7.5% [1-stage group] vs 3.0% [2-stage group]) were similar, as were postoperative complications and long-term recurrence rates (13.0% [1-stage group] vs 12.5% [2-stage group]).

CONCLUSION

Our research indicates that both the combination of LCBDE and LC and the sequence of ERCP followed by LC are equally efficient and secure when treating CBD stones in elderly patients. Consequently, the 1-stage procedure may be considered the preferred treatment approach for this demographic.

Large common bile duct stones in high-risk elderly patients: Immediate endoscopic stone removal or elective stone removal? A single-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

For high-risk elderly patients with chronic diseases, endoscopic stone removal for large common bile duct stones is associated with a high risk of adverse events and incomplete stone removal. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the treatment strategy of short-term biliary plastic stent placement followed by elective endoscopic stone removal is more effective and safer than immediate endoscopic stone removal.

METHODS

The data of 262 high-risk elderly patients who received endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for large common bile duct (CBD) stones from 2017 to 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into group A (immediate stone removal) and group B (stent drainage + elective stone removal). The baseline data of the 2 groups were matched 1:1 by propensity score matching. The stone clearance rate, ERCP procedure time, total hospital stay, and procedure-related adverse events were compared between the matched groups. In group B, stone size before and after stent placement, hospital stay, procedure time and adverse events of two ERCPs were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 57 pairs of patients were successfully matched between the 2 groups. The stone clearance rate in group B was higher than that in group A (89.5% vs. 75.3, P = 0.049). The total hospital stay in group B was longer than that in group A (11.86 ± 3.912 d vs. 19.14 ± 3.176 d, P<0.001). The total adverse event rate in group A was higher than that in group B (29.8% vs. 12.3%, P = 0.005). The incidence of cholangitis/cholecystitis after ERCP was significantly higher in group A than in group B (7.0% vs. 0.9% P = 0.029). There was no significant difference in the incidence of post-ERCP pancreatitis, bleeding, pneumonia, and cardio-cerebrovascular events between the 2 groups. There were no perforation cases in either group. After plastic biliary stent placement in group B, the stone size was significantly smaller than before stent placement (1.59 ± 0.544 cm vs. 1.95 ± 0.543 cm, P < 0.001), and there was no significant difference in the total adverse event incidence between the two ERCP procedures (18.8% vs. 10.9%, P = 0.214).

CONCLUSION

For high-risk elderly patients with large CBD stones, the treatment strategy involving temporary placement of plastic stent and elective endoscopic stone removal is safer and more effective than immediate stone removal.

ERCP in patients over 90 years old: Safety and efficacy comparison with a younger cohort

Background and study aims As life expectancy increases worldwide, so does the prevalence of biliary tract and pancreatic disorders, resulting in rising demand for invasive procedures such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in the elderly. Few studies have assessed the safety of ERCP in patients 90 years and older, particularly among the Hispanic population. The primary aim of this study was to determine the technical success and adverse events (AEs) associated with ERCP in patients 90 years of age or older in comparison to a younger cohort of patients. Patients and methods A retrospective analysis of all ERCPs done at our institution from 2012 to 2018 was performed. Three hundred ERCPs in patients < 90 years old and all 28 ERCPs done in patients ≥ 90 years old were included in the analysis. Results ERCPs were successfully completed in 96.4% of patients > 90 years old and 96.3% of the < 90-year-old cohort (realtive risk [RR] 1.00, confidence interval 0.92-1.07). There was no difference in the rate of periprocedural AEs. Post-ERCP AEs occurred in 7.1% and 3.0% in patients aged < 90 and > 90 years, respectively (RR 2.38, 0.54-10.48). No deaths were directly attributed to the procedure; however, inpatient mortality was higher in the group aged > 90 years. Conclusions ERCP is safe and effective in nonagenarian patients, and advanced age should not be considered an independent risk factor for AEs nor a contraindication for the procedure.

Influence of Frailty in Patients Undergoing Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography for Biliary Stone Disease: A Nationwide Study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Pancreaticobiliary diseases are common in the elderly. To this end, frailty represents a state of vulnerability that should be considered when assessing the risks and benefits of therapeutic endoscopic procedures. We aim to determine the rate of readmissions and clinical outcomes using the validated Hospital Frailty Risk Score in patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).

METHODS

Using the National Readmissions Database, we identified patients with an admission diagnosis of cholangitis with obstructive stone from 2016 to 2019. Patients were determined to be of low frailty risk with a score of < 5, while patients of medium to high frailty risk had a score of > 5.

RESULTS

During the study period, 5751 patients were identified with acute cholangitis with obstructing stone. Mean age of index admissions was 69.4 years and 51.8% were female. From the total cohort, 5119 (89.2%) patients underwent therapeutic ERCP, 38.0% (n = 1947) of whom were regarded as frail (risk score > 5). Following ERCP, frail patients had a less but statistically insignificant readmission rate compared to non-frail patients (2.76% vs 4.05%, p = 0.450). However, compared to non-frail patients, frail patients experienced higher post-ERCP complications (6.20% vs 14.63%, p < 0.001). Frail patients were more likely to have longer lengths of stay, higher hospital cost, and mortality risk.

CONCLUSION

ERCP is not a risk factor for readmission among frail patients. However, frail patients are at higher risk for procedure-related complications, healthcare utilization, and mortality.

Safety and efficacy of remifentanil-propofol combination on "muscle relaxant-free" general anesthesia for therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To prospectively evaluate the safety and efficacy of a "muscle relaxant-free" general anesthesia using a combination of remifentanil and propofol, compared to propofol-based monitored anesthesia care and conventional general anesthesia during therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).

METHODS

From September to December 2019, 360 patients scheduled for elective ERCP at the Endoscopy Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University were randomly assigned to three different groups: Group MAC (propofol-based monitored anesthesia care, n=120), Group GA1 (general anesthesia with neuromuscular blocking agents, n=120), or Group GA2 (remifentanil-propofol combination-based muscle relaxant-free general anesthesia, n=120).

RESULTS

The results showed that there was a significant difference in intraprocedural cardiopulmonary adverse events among the three groups (Group MAC, 37.5%; Group GA1, 19.2%; Group GA2, 17.5%; P < 0.001). Total time (from patient entry into the Endoscopy Center to departure) and room time (from patient entry into the endoscopy suit to departure) were shorter in Group GA2 and Group MAC compared to Group GA1 (P < 0.001). Additionally, endoscopist satisfaction levels were significantly higher in Group GA1 and Group GA2 compared to Group MAC (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The study found that administering propofol-remifentanil combination for "muscle relaxant-free" general anesthesia during therapeutic ERCP was safe and effective. This approach offered greater safety and endoscopist satisfaction than propofol-based monitored anesthesia care, as well as shorter total time and room time than conventional general anesthesia.

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.

Endo-anesthesia: a primer

Gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy has witnessed a Cambrian explosion of techniques, indications, and expanding target populations. GI endoscopy encompasses traditional domains that include preventive measures, palliation, as alternative therapies in patients with prohibitive risks of more invasive procedures, and indicated primary treatments. But, it has expanded to include therapeutic and diagnostic interventional endosonography, luminal endoscopic resection, third space endotherapy, endohepatology, and endobariatrics. The lines between surgery and endoscopy are blurred on many occasions within this paradigm. Moreover, patients with high degrees of co-morbidity and complex physiology require more nuanced peri-endoscopic management. The rising demand for endoscopy services has resulted in the development of endoscopy referral centers that offer these invasive procedures as directly booked referrals for regional and rural patients. This further necessitates specialized programs to ensure appropriate evaluation, risk stratification, and optimization for safe sedation and general anesthesia if needed. This landscape is conducive to the organic evolution of endo-anesthesia to meet the needs of these focused and evolving practices. In this primer, we delineate important aspects of endo-anesthesia care and provide relevant clinical and logistical considerations pertaining to the breadth of procedures.

Safety of Nonagenarians Receiving Therapeutic ERCP, Single Center Experience

(1) Background: The complication rates for nonagenarians receiving therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) remain poorly understood. We aimed to determine whether nonagenarians were at an increased risk of ERCP-related complications. (2) Methods: We performed a retrospective study on therapeutic ERCP in nonagenarians from 2011 to 2016 at Taichung Veterans General Hospital. A control group comprising patients aged 65 to 89 years was used to compare demographic data and the outcomes of therapeutic ERCP with the nonagenarians. The risk factors for complications were determined by logistic regression model. (3) Results: There were 35 nonagenarians and 111 patients in the control group. Overall, complication rates were not statistically different between the two groups. However, advanced age was an independent predictor of complications in the multivariate analysis (odds ratio [OR] = 1.06; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01-1.12; p = 0.049). End stage renal disease (ESRD) was another independent predictor of complications (OR = 4.87; 95% CI = 1.11-21.36; p = 0.036). Post-ERCP pancreatitis and bleeding were more common in ESRD patients than patients without ESRD. (4) Conclusions: Although nonagenarians receiving ERCP did not have more complications compared to elderly patients younger than 90 years, advanced age and comorbidity still affect the outcome of therapeutic ERCP in the elderly patients.

Safety and Efficacy of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography in Nonagenarians: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Recent advances in modern medicine have translated into increase in life expectancy in the USA and with that, a rise in the demand for invasive procedures in elderly patients. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is the procedure of choice for managing various benign and malignant pancreatobiliary conditions and can be associated with various adverse events.

AIM

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate outcomes of ERCP in nonagenarians.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was performed in Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Review library until July 2020. Our primary outcomes were the rate of technical success and adverse events in nonagenarians. Secondary outcomes were comparison of technical success and adverse events compared with younger patients.

RESULTS

The initial search revealed 4933 studies, of which 24 studies with 5521 patients met our inclusion criteria. Pooled technical success rate of ERCP in nonagenarians was 92%, and pooled adverse event rate was 7.8%. There was no significant difference in technical success rate and overall rate of adverse events comparing ERCP outcomes in nonagenarians with a relatively younger population. The risk of post-ERCP bleeding was significantly higher in nonagenarians compared to younger patients with OR = 1.986 [1.113-3.544], I2 = 0. ERCP-related mortality was also significantly higher in nonagenarians compared to younger patients with OR = 4.720 [1.368-16.289], I2 = 0.

CONCLUSION

There was no significant difference in technical success rate and risk of adverse events related to ERCP in nonagenarians compared to younger patients. However, the risk of bleeding and procedure-related mortality was significantly higher.

DOES AGE INFLUENCE IN ENDOSCOPIC THERAPEUTIC SUCCESS ON THE BILIARY TRACT?

BACKGROUND

Retrograde endoscopic cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) effectively treats biliary and pancreatic disorders. Its indications are limited and precise, since its misuse delays adequate treatment, increases costs and to patient´s adverse events.

AIM

To compare clinical, radiological and exploratory characteristics in relation to therapeutic success in patients undergoing ERCP in relation to age.

METHOD

421 patients who underwent the method were retrospectively studied; those who were not able to access the duodenal papilla were excluded. The patients were divided into two age groups: <60 years (group 1) and >60 years (group 2), and the variables of gender, examination indications, radiological findings, therapeutic success, diagnosis and the occurrence of immediate adverse events were analyzed.

RESULTS

177 patients were allocated to group 1 and 235 to group 2. The main indication found in both groups was choledocholithiasis. In group 2, the number of cases of acute cholangitis (p=0.001), biliary stenosis (p=0.002) and papilla cancer (p=0.046) was higher. In this group, urgent indication for ERCP was higher (p=0.042), as well as the diagnosis of biliary tract dilatation (p<0.001). The placement of prostheses was the most common procedure performed in both groups, but the greatest number of patients in absolute quantity occurred in group 2. In group 1, the success in catheterization and the chance of achieving clearing of the biliary tract was significantly higher in compared to group 2 (p=0.016, OR=2.1).

CONCLUSION

The success of catheterization and complete clearance of the bile duct was significantly higher in the group of young patients.

Risk factors for complications in elderly patients aged 85 years and over undergoing endoscopic biliary stone removal

Background and aim

The number of elderly patients with biliary stones is increasing. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERCP) is considered to be an effective treatment for biliary stones. Having a sound knowledge of the risk factors can help reduce the incidence and severity of complications for ERCP. Furthermore, limited research has been published on patients aged over 85 years undergoing endoscopic biliary stone removal. This study aims to determine the risk factors that lead to complications of ERCP in patients over 85 years of age.

Methods

This was a single-center retrospective study. We analyzed 156 patients aged ≥ 85 years with biliary stones who underwent their first ERCP at Chinese PLA General Hospital from February 2002 to March 2021. Logistic regression models were employed to identify the independent risk factors for complications.

Results

A total of 13 patients (8.3%) had complications. Thereinto, pancreatitis, cholangitis, bleeding, and other complications occurred in 4 cases (2.6%), 1 cases (0.6%), 4 cases (2.6%), and 4 cases (2.6%), respectively. There was no perforation or death related to ERCP. Independent risk factors for complications were acute biliary pancreatitis (ABP) (P = 0.017) and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) (P = 0.019). Significantly, reasons for incomplete stone removal at once were large stone (>10 mm) (P < 0.001) and higher acute physiology and chronic health evaluation scoring system (APACHE-II) (P = 0.005).

Conclusions

ERCP was recommended with caution in patients ≥ 85 years of age with ABP or higher CCI undergoing endoscopic biliary stone removal. In patients with ABP without cholangitis or biliary obstruction we recommend against urgent (within 48 h) ERCP. Patients with higher CCI who can tolerate ERCP can undergo rapid ERCP biliary stenting or nasobiliary implantation with later treatment of stones, and patients who cannot tolerate ERCP are treated promptly with PTCD and aggressive conservative treatment.

Safety and efficacy of therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for patients over 90 years of age

AIMS

This study aimed to explore the safety and efficacy of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in patients over 90 years of age.

METHODS

The study included 176 patients aged over 85 years who received their ERCP from February 2002 to January 2021. In the case group (super-elderly group), 44 patients were 90 years old or above. In the control group (younger group), there were 132 patients aged 85-89 years. The control group was matched according to patient gender and the same indications of ERCP at a 1:3 ratio. Logistic regression models were employed to evaluate all complications.

RESULTS

The case group had higher acute physiology and chronic health evaluation scoring system (APACHE-II) scores and rate of hypoalbuminemia. APACHE-II scores (≥6 or 7) were significantly more common in the case group. The rates of technical success and complete success in the case group were 100% and 100% respectively, which were similar to the rates in the control group, namely a technical success rate of 98.5% and a complete success rate of 98.5%. The rate of complication in the case group was 9.1%, which was slightly lower than that of the control group (15.2%, P > 0.05). ERCP-related death occurred in one patient in the control group, who had malignant biliary obstruction and died from cholangitis. There was no significant difference in the incidence of complications such as pancreatitis, hemorrhage, and infection between the two groups. In the multivariate analysis, the independent risk factor was Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) for overall complication.

CONCLUSIONS

ERCP can be performed safely and successfully in patients aged ≥90 years. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; ••: ••-••.

[Endoscopic treatment of choledocholithiasis in patients over 80 years old]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze endoscopic treatment of choledocholithiasis in patients over 80 years old.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A single-center retrospective study included 90 consecutive patients aged ≥80 years and 58 patients aged 60-79 years. Early outcomes including efficacy of calculus removal, incidence of complications and their risk factors were evaluated.

RESULTS

In 75 patients aged ≥80 years (83.3%), endoscopic treatment was effective definitive single procedure. Between-group differences were insignificant (p=0.163). Patients aged ≥80 years were characterized by higher percentage of ASA classes 2-4 (p<0.001), age-adjusted mean Charlson comorbidity index (p=0.004), and ≥2 calculi (64.4% vs. 32.8%, p<0.001). Postoperative morbidity was similar (7.8% vs. 6.9%, p=0.842). Multivariate logistic regression analysis of potential risk factors did not reveal significant correlations: Chi-square test was 14.94 at 15 degrees of freedom (p=0.463).

CONCLUSION

Similar postoperative morbidity determines safety of endoscopic lithoextraction in patients aged over 80 years. We should emphasize higher percentage of advanced age patients with «difficult» choledocholithiasis that requires appropriate training of specialists, adequate equipment of hospitals and routing of patients.

A 25 mg rectal dose of diclofenac for prevention of post-ERCP pancreatitis in elderly patients

A 50-100 mg rectal dose of diclofenac or indomethacin is recommended for prophylaxis of post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP); however, limited data are available regarding the appropriate dose to prevent PEP in elderly patients. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of 25 mg diclofenac in preventing PEP in elderly patients. Material and methods: Overall, 276 patients with naive papilla, aged over 75 years, were included in the present study between April 2013 and March 2020. We retrospectively evaluated the risk of PEP in patients over 75 years, administered with or without 25 mg diclofenac 30 min before ERCP using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) analysis. Results: Patients were categorized into the diclofenac group (83 patients) or non-diclofenac group (193 patients). The incidence rate of PEP in the diclofenac group was significantly lower than that in the non-diclofenac group (4% vs. 14%, p = .01). Multivariate analysis revealed that 25 mg diclofenac was an independent protective factor against PEP in elderly patients aged over 75 years (odds ratio [OR] = 0.17; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.04-0.67; p = 0.01). This protective effect of diclofenac against PEP remained robust after IPTW analysis (OR = 0.11; 95% CI = 0.03-0.40; p = .001). No adverse events related to diclofenac were observed. Conclusion: Diclofenac (25 mg) was considered effective and safe for preventing PEP in elderly patients. Our results may provide a new strategy for preventing PEP in elderly patients.

Efficacy and safety of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the very elderly by using a combination of intravenous midazolam, ketamine and pethidine

AIM

The number of therapeutic endoscopic procedures in elderly individuals keeps increasing and this population has a high risk of adverse events related to sedation and general anesthesia. However, there is a paucity on data about the efficacy and safety of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in this population.

METHODS

In total, 417 consecutive ERCP procedures were performed in 362 patients between September 2018 and January 2020. Of these, 59 patients (74 sessions) were aged ≥80 years (Group A) and 173 patients (193 procedures) were aged ≤65 years (Group B). We analyzed the prospectively collected data of patient- and procedure-related variables.

RESULTS

The procedure time was significantly longer in Group A (P < 0.05). The prevalence of comorbidities, use of anticoagulants and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification levels were significantly higher in Group A (P < 0.05). The incidence of periampullary diverticula, malignancy, rate of difficult cannulation, mean number of stones, use of biliary stents and stent dysfunction was also significantly higher in Group A (P < 0.05). The medication doses used were significantly higher and emergence symptoms were significantly more frequent in Group B (P < 0.05). The rates of bleeding, pancreatitis, perforation, cholangitis, hypoxia, hypotension and the length of hospital stay did not significantly differ between the two groups. The overall success rate of the procedure was comparable in the two groups (P = 0.874).

CONCLUSIONS

ERCP can be safely performed in elderly patients using a combination of midazolam and ketamine without propofol. The incidence of complications is comparable with that observed in younger patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 887-892.

The efficacy and safety of colonoscopy in nonagenarians: A multicenter study

INTRODUCTION

The number of colonoscopy (CS) for the elderly is increasing. There are only a few reports focusing on CS among the very elderly aged ≥ 90-y. We aimed to analyze the efficacy of CS and of colorectal cancer (CRC) for patients aged ≥ 90-y.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed consecutive patients aged ≥ 90-y receiving CS at eight institutions from October 2016 to September 2017. Bowel preparation, complications, and endoscopic diagnosis were analyzed. The non-elderly group aged between 50-y and 64-y and elderly group aged between 65-y and 79-y were compared to very-elderly group aged ≥ 90-y. Through propensity score matching of sex and CS indications (symptomatic or asymptomatic), the number of CRC and the treatment in each group were analyzed.

RESULTS

We analyzed 125 patients receiving 154 colonoscopies (0.9%) in the very-elderly group from among 16,968 cases. Among 92 cases who received bowel-cleansing solution, good preparations were achieved in 94.5%. The rate of CS-related complications was 1.3% (2/154). The rate of CRC in the very-elderly group was 27.2% (34/125), higher than the non-elderly group (7.2%, 9/125, p < 0.01) and elderly group (8.8%, 11/125, p < 0.01). Therapeutic interventions for CRC in the very-elderly group were performed in 73.5% (24/34) patients. The mean survival of 12 patients with CRC resection was 788 days.

CONCLUSIONS

CS could be performed safely for the very elderly aged ≥ 90-y with careful considerations. CRC was confirmed to be more frequent in this group with over 70% of patients receiving appropriate therapeutic intervention.

Managing Gallstone Disease in the Elderly

Geriatric patients tend to have subtle presentations of biliary disorders and, if untreated, can decompensate acutely. Each biliary disorder warrants formulation of an individualized treatment plan with a multidisciplinary approach. Acute cholecystitis, a common complication of gallstones, is initially managed by conservative measures and subsequently, among patients with optimal surgical risk, through laparoscopic or open cholecystectomy. High-risk patients undergo temporization, percutaneous or endoscopic, followed by definitive intervention. Acute cholecystitis with complications (ie, perforation, gangrene, or small bowel obstruction) warrants emergent cholecystectomy. Gallstone migration into the biliary system can cause choledocholithiasis, often complicated by biliary pancreatitis or cholangitis if not intervened. Therapy for choledocholithiasis is based on biliary clearance through endoscopic and, infrequently, surgical approaches.

Is complete stone removal for choledocholithiasis always necessary in extremely elderly patients?

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Endoscopic stone removal has some complications. Although the life expectancy of elderly patients has increased dramatically worldwide, little information is available on the necessity of complete endoscopic stone removal in extremely elderly patients. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of complete endoscopic stone removal in extremely elderly patients.

METHODS

All extremely elderly patients (>90 years) who underwent endoscopic stone removal for choledocholithiasis at our hospital between January 2012 and January 2017 were retrospectively evaluated. The included patients were divided into complete stone removal and incomplete stone removal groups. Complication rate, overall survival (OS), and disease-specific survival (DSS) rates were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Overall, 73 patients were included in this study. The median number of stones was one (range, 0-10) and two (range, 1-12) (P = 0.043), while the median diameter of the largest stones was 9 (range, 0-27) and 14 (range, 5-46) mm (P = 0.001) in the complete and incomplete stone removal groups, respectively. During the follow-up period, OS was 60% and 39% and DSS was 95% and 97% in the complete and incomplete stone removal groups, respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis found no significant difference in OS and DSS between the two groups (P = 0.052 and P = 0.646, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Complete stone removal might not always be necessary in extremely elderly patients aged ≥90 years.

Safety of endoscopy in cancer patients with thrombocytopenia and neutropenia

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Cancer patients are prone to thrombocytopenia and neutropenia, which increase the risk of bleeding and infection. We assessed the safety of endoscopic procedures in cancer patients with thrombocytopenia and/or neutropenia.

METHODS

We studied consecutive cancer patients with thrombocytopenia and/or neutropenia who underwent endoscopic procedures from 2010 through 2015. Neutropenia was defined as an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) <1000 cells/μL, and thrombocytopenia as a platelet count <100 × 10³/μL. Univariate and multivariate generalized estimating equation models were used to assess factors associated with risk of adverse events (AEs) or death.

RESULTS

We identified 588 patients who underwent 783 procedures; 608 procedures were performed in the setting of thrombocytopenia and 675 procedures in the setting of neutropenia. Concurrent neutropenia and thrombocytopenia were recorded in 500 endoscopies. Twenty-four patients (4.1%) experienced infectious AEs, whereas 29 (4.9%) experienced bleeding AEs within 1 week of the procedure. On multivariate analysis, platelet count ≤50 × 10³/μL was associated with risk of bleeding AEs. In contrast, poor performance status was associated with increased risk of infection AEs (P < .01). No association was observed between low ANC and infectious AEs. Poor performance status (P < .01) and platelet count ≤100 × 10³/μL (P < .05) were associated with increased risk of 30-day mortality. A persistent platelet count <20 × 10³/μL after the procedure, with a baseline platelet count of ≤20 × 10³/μL before the procedure, was associated with significant risk of bleeding AEs compared with a platelet count >20 × 10³/μL after the procedure (P < .01); furthermore, if the platelet count increased to >50 × 10³/μL after the procedure, the bleeding risk after the procedure was greatly reduced (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic procedures are relatively safe in cancer patients with platelet count >50 × 10³/μL. Nevertheless, a platelet count of ≥20 × 10³/μL could be an appropriate threshold for platelet transfusion if 50 × 10³/μL is difficult to achieve. The functional status of the patient, in the absence of the need for urgent or necessary endoscopic interventions, should be considered when deciding whether to perform endoscopy. The risk of procedure and the ANC did not seem to affect the outcomes.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the elderly: results of a retrospective study and a geriatricians' point of view

Background

The incidence of biliary tract pathology is growing with an age-related trend, and progresses as the population ages. Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) represents the gold standard for treatment in these cases, but evidence about its safety in the elderly is still debated.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical records of all patients aged ≥65 undergoing ERCP between July 2013 and July 2015. Of 387 ERCP cases, 363 (~ 94%) were completed entirely. The mean age of the study population (n = 363) was 79.9 years old (range 70–95), with 190 subjects aged 70–79 and 173 older than 80. We recorded demographics, Charlson Comorbidity index (CCI), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification score, indication for the use of the ERCP procedure, and clinical outcomes. Then, we tested all variables to identify the potential risk factors for complications associated with the procedure.

Results

The older group (those ≥80 years old) showed significantly more patients with ASA Classes III-IV than the younger one (those ≤79 years old). Interestingly, the CCI was higher in the younger group (p = 0.009). The overall complication rate was 17.3% without inter-group differences. Older age, sex, CCI and intra-ERCP procedures were not related to a higher risk of complications, and the multivariate regression did not identify any of the considered variables to be an independent risk factor for complications.

Conclusion

ERCP appears as safe in the patients aged 80 years and older, as it is in those aged 70–79 years old in our study, however, a selection bias may affect these findings. A study including a comprehensive geriatric assessment will contribute to shedding light on this issue.

Acute pancreatitis in the elderly: a cause for increased concern?

BACKGROUND

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an aggressive and potentially fatal clinical condition. Although all age groups are at risk, the elderly may be a group of special concern. We aimed at evaluating clinical outcomes of patients with elderly-onset AP.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using a single-center retrospective database, treatment and follow-up records of 550 patients admitted with AP were reviewed. Outcomes included mortality, admission to the ICU, need for interventional procedures, nutritional support, and length of hospital and ICU stay. Elderly-onset AP was defined as an episode of AP occurring in patients older than 65 years.

RESULTS

A total of 263 patients were classified as having elderly-onset AP. There was an association between older age and higher Ranson and the bedside index of severity in AP scores, translating into longer lengths of hospital stay, higher requirements for ICU admission, interventional procedures, organ failure, persistent organ failure, and overall mortality. In multivariate analysis, age was an independent predictor of mortality in AP.

CONCLUSIONS

Age was strongly associated with a more severe course of AP. Early recognition and prompt action are essential to improve outcomes in this population.

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography in Nonagenarian Patients: Is It Really Safe?

Background/Aims

Literature on the safety of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in elderly patients is divided. Based on this we decided to examine the safety of ERCP in nonagenarian patients.

Methods

A total of 1,389 patients, with a mean age of 63.94±19.62 years, underwent ERCP during the study period. There were 74 patients aged 90 years or older with a mean age of 92.07±1.8. Logistic regression showed that nonagenarian patients had a significantly increased odds of in-patient mortality (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]=9.6; 95% confidence interval [CI]=4, 23; p≤0.001). Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) ≥2 was also an independent predictor of in-patient mortality (AOR=2.4; 95% CI=1.2, 5.2; p=0.021). Age ≥90 was not associated with increased adverse events; however emergency procedures (AOR=2.4; 95% CI=1.5, 4; p<0.001) and CCI ≥2 (AOR=2.6; 95% CI=1.7, 4.0; p<0.001) were more likely to have adverse events.

Conclusions

Age ≥90 and CCI ≥2 are independently associated with increased odds of in-patient mortality in patients undergoing ERCP, whereas emergency procedures and CCI ≥2 are associated with an increased adverse event rate. Caution must be exercised when considering ERCP in patients aged ≥90 years and those with a CCI ≥2.

Safety and Efficacy of Acute Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography in the Elderly

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a frequent procedure in elderly patients.

AIMS

We aimed to determine the safety and efficacy of acute ERCP in older patients.

METHODS

A prospectively managed, hospital-based registry containing all ERCP procedures and complications at a tertiary referral center was used to form the study population, which consisted of consecutive elderly (≥65 years) patients undergoing acute ERCP during the 5-year study period. Indications, details, outcome, and complications of the procedure were analyzed in relation to patient age, gender, and co-morbidities.

RESULTS

A total of 480 elderly patients (median age 78; range 65-97; 48 % men) underwent 531 ERCPs during the study period. The most common indications were bile duct stones (56.1 %) and biliary obstruction caused by malignancy (33.7 %). Successful stone extraction was achieved in 72.8 %, and with an additional, planned ERCP in 96.6 % of the patients. Post-ERCP complications developed in 3.4 % of the patients. These included pancreatitis in 1.7 %, hemorrhage in 0.6 %, and duodenal perforation in 0.2 % of the patients. One of these (0.2 %) was considered severe as this patient required invasive treatments and prolonged hospital stay. The risk of complications was associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and difficult cannulation. Procedure-related mortality was zero, but overall 30-day mortality was 10 %, being 24 % in the patients with malignancy.

CONCLUSIONS

ERCP can be safely and efficaciously performed on elderly patients. The high mortality should be taken into consideration when selecting therapeutic options.

Efficacy and safety of emergency endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for acute cholangitis in the elderly

AIM

To investigate the efficacy and safety of emergency endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in elderly patients with acute cholangitis.

METHODS

From June 2008 to May 2016, emergency ERCPs were performed in 207 cases of acute cholangitis at our institution. Patients were classified as elderly if they were aged 80 years and older (n = 102); controls were under the age of 80 years (n = 105). The patients’ medical records were retrospectively reviewed for comorbidities, laboratory data, etiology of cholangitis (presence of biliary stones, biliary stricture and malignancy), details of the ERCP (therapeutic approaches, technical success rates, procedure duration), ERCP-related complications and mortality.

RESULTS

The frequency of comorbidities was higher in the elderly group than the control group (91.2% vs 67.6%). Periampullary diverticulum was observed in the elderly group at a higher frequency than the control group (24.5% vs 13.3%). Between the groups, there was no significant difference in the technical success rates (95.1% vs 95.2%) or endoscopic procedure durations. With regard to the frequency of ERCP-related complications, there was no significant difference between the two groups (6.9% vs 6.7%), except for a lower rate of post-ERCP pancreatitis in the elderly group than in the control group (1.0% vs 3.8%). Neither angiographic nor surgical intervention was required in any of the cases with ERCP-related complications. There was no mortality during the observational periods.

CONCLUSION

Emergency ERCP for acute cholangitis can be performed safely even in elderly patients aged 80 years and older.

Clinical efficacy of emergency endoscopy in elderly patients with acute cholangitis

AIM: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of emergency endoscopy in elderly patients with acute cholangitis (AC).

METHODS: Clinical data for 148 elderly patients with acute cholangitis who underwent emergency endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) from March 2013 to July 2014 at Tianjin Nankai Hospital were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS: Of the 148 cases, 141 underwent successful emergency endoscopy, of whom 65 had stone removal in the first session, and 74 had significant relief of clinical symptoms after endoscopic nasobiliary drainage (ENBD). Two patients died. Of the 141 case who underwent successful ERCP, 7 developed bleeding, and 2 developed pancreatitis after ERCP.

CONCLUSION: Emergency endoscopy is a safe and effective method for the treatment of elderly patients with acute cholangitis. In experienced digestive endoscopy centers, emergency endoscopy can be used as a preferred treatment for elderly patients with acute cholangitis.

25 mg versus 50 mg dose of rectal diclofenac for prevention of post-ERCP pancreatitis in Japanese patients: a retrospective study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to assess the appropriate administration dose of non-steroidal anti-inflammation drugs to prevent pancreatitis after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Importantly, the 100 mg dose of diclofenac recommended in Western countries has not been permitted in Japan.

DESIGN

A retrospective study.

SETTINGS

A single centre in Japan.

PARTICIPANTS

This study enrolled patients who underwent ERCP at the Department of Gastroenterology, Osaka Saiseikai Senri Hospital, from April 2011 through June 2013, and who received either a 25 or a 50 mg dose of rectal diclofenac after ERCP.

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURE

The occurrence of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP). A multivariate regression model was used to assess the effect of the 50 mg dose (the 50 mg group) of rectal diclofenac and to compare it to the occurrence of PEP referring to the 25 mg group.

RESULTS

A total of 155 eligible patients received either 25 mg (84 patients) or 50 mg (71 patients) doses of rectal diclofenac after ERCP to prevent PEP. The proportion of PEP was significantly lower in the 50 mg group than in the 25 mg group (15.5% (11/71) vs 33.3% (28/84), p=0.018). In a multivariate analysis, the occurrence of PEP was significantly lower in the 50 mg group than in the 25 mg group even after adjusting potential confounding factors (adjusted OR=0.27, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.70).

CONCLUSIONS

From this observation, the occurrence of PEP was significantly lower among ERCP patients with the 50 mg dose of rectal diclofenac than among those with the 25 mg dose.