Prospective pilot study of fully covered self-expandable metal stents for refractory benign pancreatic duct strictures: long-term outcomes

Endoscopic interventions in pancreatic strictures and stones-A structured approach

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is an irreversible disease of varied etiology characterized by destruction of pancreatic tissue and loss of both exocrine and endocrine function. Pain is the dominant and most common presenting symptom. The common cause for pain in CP is ductal hypertension due to obstruction of the flow of pancreatic juice in the main pancreatic duct either due to stones or stricture or a combination of both. With advances in technology and techniques, endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERCP) and stenting should be the first line of therapy for strictures of the main pancreatic duct (MPD). Small calculi in the MPD can be extracted by ERCP and balloon trawl. Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) remains the standard of care for large pancreatic calculi and aims to fragment the stones 3 mm or less that can easily be extracted by a subsequent ERCP. Single operator pancreatoscopy with intraductal lithotripsy is a technique in evolution and can be tried when ESWL is not available or is unsuccessful in producing stone fragmentation.

An update on improving long-term outcomes for patients with chronic pancreatitis post-surgery

INTRODUCTION

Chronic pancreatitis is a common inflammatory disease that severely impairs patients' quality of life, mainly due to abdominal pain which is the most frequent symptom. Current guidelines suggest medical therapy as the first line intervention based on a stepwise use of analgesics (i.e. NSAIDs followed by weak opioids and later by strong oppioids), which is rarely effective in improving pain and often leads to opioid addiction. Interventional procedures are therefore frequently needed. Endoscopic therapy is suggested as the second line of intervention, aiming at decompressing the main pancreatic duct via structure dilatation and ductal stone removal. Endoscopic therapy is usually effective in reducing pain in the short term, but its effects frequently decrease with time and multiple procedures are often required. Surgery is usually reserved as a last resource when medical and endoscopic therapy have failed. Pancreatic surgery is burdened with non negligible morbidity and mortality but is effective in reducing pain and improving quality of life in chronic pancratitis with long lasting effects.

AREAS COVERED

Surgical treatment of chronic pancreatitis is based on resection of inflammatory head mass or decompression of the ductal system, alone or in combination, which can be performed using different techniques. In this paper we reviewed the current evidence on the long-term outcomes of this type of surgery in terms of pain relief, quality of life, exocrine end endocrine function, and long-term mortality.

EXPERT OPINION

Quality of current evidence on this field is on average poor; a consensus to define clinically significant outcomes is needed in order to correctly design prospective studies that will enable gastroenterologists to understand which patients, and when, will benefit most from surgery and should therefore be referred to surgeons.

Self-expanding metallic stent for refractory pancreatic duct stricture in chronic pancreatitis: A prospective follow-up study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

In chronic pancreatitis, fully covered self-expanding metal stents (FCSEMS) are used to treat refractory pancreatic duct strictures. However, the FCSEMS design, effectiveness, safety, optimal stent indwelling time and patient selection remain unclear. This study aimed at evaluating technical success, clinical success and adverse events with FCSEMS in patients with symptomatic pancreatic duct stricture.

METHODS

The prospective study was conducted between May 2017 and May 2021 at a tertiary care center for chronic pancreatitis with refractory pancreatic duct stricture using controlled radial expansion (CRE) endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with FCSEMS (Niti-S, Bumpy stent, Taewoong Medical, Gimpo-Si, South Korea).

RESULTS

During the study period, a total of 11 patients underwent ERCP with FCSEMS for refractory pancreatic duct stricture. The mean age (± standard deviation, [SD]) was 32.36 ± 10.98 years and nine patients (81%) were male. Technical and clinical success rates were 100% and 90.9%, respectively. All patients had a history of prior pancreatic endotherapy. The median (inter quartile range, [IQR]) stent indwell time was seven (6-10) months. The median visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score pre and post-FCSEMS was 8 (5-8) and 1 (0-2), respectively (p-value 0.003). Median (IQR) follow-up after stent removal was 48 (40-60) months. One patient (9%) developed de novo main pancreatic duct (MPD) stricture, which was asymptomatic. None of the patients had cholangitis, pancreatitis, perforation, proximal migration or stent fracture.

CONCLUSION

The FCSEMS treatment appears to be safe, feasible and possibly an effective option for patients who have not responded to endoscopic plastic stenting.

Long-term clinical outcomes of a fully covered self-expandable metal stent for refractory pancreatic strictures in symptomatic chronic pancreatitis: An 11-year follow-up study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

A fully covered self-expandable metal stent (FCSEMS) has recently been applied in the management of chronic pancreatitis patients with pancreatic strictures. However, related long-term effects remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term outcomes of FCSEMS placement in chronic pancreatitis patients with refractory strictures.

METHOD

We retrospectively reviewed our database for patients undergoing FCSEMS placement for refractory pancreatic strictures between September 2008 and December 2010. The main outcomes were technical, radiological, and clinical success, as well as recurrence and adverse events.

RESULTS

A total of 35 patients were included. Technical success was achieved in all patients. The median FCSEMS indwelling time was 3.2 months (interquartile range [IQR], 3.0-4.9 months). Radiological success was achieved in all patients (complete, n = 2; partial, n = 33). Clinical success was achieved in 29 patients (82.9%; complete analgesic cessation, n = 19; analgesic reduction >50%, n = 11). During the median follow-up of 136 months, (IQR, 85.8-145.5 months), eight patients (22.9%) experienced recurrence. The median interval from stent removal to recurrence was 24.9 months (IQR, 11.3-30.3 months). Biliary obstruction, an early adverse event, occurred in two patients (5.7%); the late adverse event stent-induced de novo stricture was observed in 17 patients (48.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that an FCSEMS is effective for relieving refractory strictures in chronic pancreatitis. However, FCSEMSs were associated with stent-induced de novo strictures in nearly half of the patients. Prospective studies are required to further evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of FCSEMSs in chronic pancreatitis.

A prospective study of fully covered self-expandable metal stents for refractory benign pancreatic duct strictures

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Fully covered self-expanding metal stents (FCSEMSs) are a relatively novel option for treating painful main pancreatic duct refractory strictures in patients with chronic pancreatitis. Herein, we aimed to assess the efficacy, feasibility, and safety of FCSEMSs in this patient group.

METHODS

This prospective single-center study included patients who underwent endoscopic retrograde pancreatography with FCSEMS placement. The primary endpoints were the technical and clinical success rates. A reduction in visual analog scale pain score of >50% compared with that before stent placement was defined as clinical success. Secondary endpoints were resolution of pancreatic strictures on fluoroscopy during endoscopic retrograde pancreatography and the development of stent-related adverse events.

RESULTS

Thirty-six patients were included in the analysis. The technical success rate was 100% (n=36) and the clinical success rate was 86.1% (n=31). There was a significant increase in stricture diameter from 1.7 mm to 3.5 mm (p<0.001) after stent removal. The mean visual analog scale pain score showed statistically significant improvement. At 19 months of follow-up, 55.6% of the patients were asymptomatic. Stent migration (16.7%), intolerable abdominal pain (8.3%), development of de novo strictures (8.3%), and mild pancreatitis (2.8%) were the most common adverse events.

CONCLUSION

FCSEMS placement showed good technical and clinical success rates for achieving pain relief in patients with refractory main pancreatic duct strictures.

Endoscopic management of chronic pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is an inflammatory process characterized by irreversible morphological changes in the pancreas. Pain is the predominant symptom observed during the course of CP. The etiopathogenesis of pain in CP is multifactorial and includes ductal hypertension due to obstruction of the pancreatic duct (PD), neuropathic causes, and extrapancreatic complications of CP like pseudocyst and distal biliary obstruction. A sizeable proportion of patients with CP are amenable to endoscopic treatment. The mainstay of endotherapy includes decompression of PD with one or more plastic stents in those with stricture, and fragmentation of PD calculi using extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy. Nearly two-thirds of the patients achieve pain relief in the long term with endotherapy. Upfront assessment for the suitability of endotherapy is paramount to achieve the best outcomes. The predictors of poor response to endotherapy include multifocal disease, like those with multifocal strictures or multiple calculi throughout the pancreas, or a combination of both PD strictures and stones. With the emerging use of covered metal stents, the outcomes are likely to improve in cases with refractory PD strictures as well as CP-related distal biliary obstruction. The optimum stent design and indwell time of metal stents in cases with refractory PD strictures need further evaluation. Endoscopic ultrasonography has emerged as a complementary endoscopic modality in the management of CP as well as associated complications like pseudocysts, refractory pain, and vascular complications.

Long-term outcome of endotherapy for pancreatic stones by using a dedicated pancreatic basket catheter

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Although endotherapy for pancreatic stones is less invasive compared with surgical interventions, its recurrence rate is high and residual pancreatic stones can be a cause of recurrence. We previously reported usefulness of a novel basket catheter with nitinol fine reticular structure for pancreatic stone retraction. In this retrospective study, we aimed to evaluate the long-term outcomes of endotherapy for pancreatic stones with and without the use of this dedicated basket catheter.

METHODS

We retrospectively compared patients with symptomatic pancreatic stones who underwent the initial endotherapy between 2008 and 2019. The primary outcome was the symptomatic recurrence after complete stone clearance. Secondary outcomes were the rate of complete stone clearance, complications, risk factors for recurrences, and the treatment cost.

RESULTS

A total of 101 patients who underwent endotherapy for pancreatic stones were analyzed: 41 patients by using the dedicated basket catheter and 60 patients by only the conventional devices. The complete stone clearance was achieved in 87.8% in the dedicated basket group and 88.3% in the conventional device group. Symptomatic recurrence was observed in 16.7% of the dedicated basket group and 47.2% of the conventional device group (P < 0.01). In the multivariate analysis, the use of the dedicated basket catheter was significantly associated with the reduced risk of symptomatic recurrence (hazard ratio, 0.40; 95% confidence interval, 0.15-0.92, P = 0.031). The complication rate and the cost were comparable between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

The use of this dedicated pancreatic basket catheter significantly reduced symptomatic recurrence after complete pancreatic stone removal.

Long-term outcomes of fully covered self-expandable metal stents versus plastic stents in chronic pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) related main pancreatic duct (MPD) stricture has been a challenge for endoscopists. Fully covered self-expandable metal stents (FC-SEMS) has been tried in CP patients, but the efficacy and safety are still controversial. Thus, we aim to compare the long-term clinical efficacy of FC-SEMS vs. plastic stent placement in persistent MPD strictures secondary to CP. Between 2007 and 2018, 80 chronic pancreatitis patients (58 males, median age 49 years), who underwent endoscopic placement of FC-SEMS (n = 26) and plastic stent (n = 54) for persistent MPD strictures after at least 3 months of initial single plastic stenting, were retrospectively analyzed during a median follow-up duration of 33.7 months. As a result, MPD stricture resolution rate was statistically higher in FC-SEMS group (87.0% vs. 42.0%, p < 0.001). Although immediate complications occurred similarly (38.5% vs. 37.0%, p = 0.902), spontaneous migration (26.9%) and de novo strictures (23.1%) were pronounced delayed complications in FC-SEMS group. Pain relief during follow-up was significantly higher in FC-SEMS group (76.9% vs. 53.7%, p = 0.046). The total procedure cost was similar in both groups ($1,455.6 vs. $1,596.9, p = 0.486). In comparison with plastic stent, FC-SEMS placement for persistent MPD strictures had favorable long-term clinical efficacy, with its typical complications like spontaneous migration and de novo strictures.

Comparison of clinical outcomes of multiple plastic stents and covered metal stent in refractory pancreatic ductal strictures in chronic pancreatitis- a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Symptomatic pancreatic duct (PD) strictures in chronic pancreatitis refractory to single plastic stenting are usually managed by placement of multiple plastic stents (MPS). Fully covered self-expanding metallic stents (FCSEMS) have also been used in the management of these patients. However, the overall efficacy and safety of different types of stents is unclear from the currently available studies. We performed this meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and complications from MPS and FCSEMS in patients with PD strictures refractory to treatment with single plastic stents.

METHODS

Several electronic databases were searched for all the studies evaluating the outcome of placement of multiple plastic stents and fully covered metal stents in patients with PD strictures refractory to single plastic stenting. We calculated the Weighted Pooled Ratio (WPR) with Confidence Interval (CI) between the MPS and FCSEMS.

RESULTS

A total of 13 studies (including 2 abstracts) were included in the analysis. MPS were placed in 106 patients and FCSEMS in 192 patients. Improvement in pain after stenting (P = 0.794), risk of recurrence of pain after removal of stent (P = 0.48) and stricture recurrence after stent removal (P = 0.52) were comparable between MPS and FCSEMS. Risk of endoscopic re-intervention was also comparable between metal stents and MPS. However, FCSEMS was associated with overall higher risk of adverse events (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

FCSEMS are comparable to multiple plastic stents in the treatment of symptomatic refractory PD strictures. However, use of FCSEMS is associated with increased risk of adverse events.

Current advances in the management of chronic pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis is characterized by irreversible destruction of pancreatic parenchyma and its ductal system resulting from longstanding inflammation, leading to fibrosis and scarring due to genetic, environmental, and other risk factors. The diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis is made based on a combination of clinical features and characteristic findings on computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Abdominal pain is the most common symptom of chronic pancreatitis. The main aim of treatment is to relieve symptoms, prevent disease progression, and manage complications related to chronic pancreatitis. Patients who do not respond to medical treatment or not a candidate for surgical treatment are usually managed with endoscopic therapies. Endoscopic therapies help with symptoms such as abdominal pain and jaundice by decompression of pancreatic and biliary ducts. This review summarizes the risk factors, pathophysiology, diagnostic evaluation, endoscopic treatment of chronic pancreatitis, and complications. We have also reviewed recent advances in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic ultrasound-guided therapies for pancreatic duct obstruction due to stones, strictures, pancreatic divisum, and biliary strictures.

Acute recurrent and chronic pancreatitis in children

Acute recurrent pancreatitis (ARP) is defined as two distinct episodes of acute pancreatitis (AP), whereas chronic pancreatitis (CP) is caused by persistent inflammation of the pancreas. In children they are caused by genetic mutations, autoimmune pancreatitis, congenital pancreatic abnormalities, and other conditions. Acute recurrent pancreatitis is frequently a precursor to CP, and both are thought to be on the same disease continuum. In particular, genetic factors are associated with early progression of ARP to CP. The diagnosis of CP, as in AP, is based on clinical findings, biochemical tests, and imaging studies. Findings of exocrine pancreatic dysfunction are also important in the diagnosis of CP. A step-up strategy has become increasingly standard for the treatment of patients with CP. This strategy starts with endoscopic treatment, such as pancreatic sphincterotomy and stenting, and progresses to surgery should endoscopic therapy fail or prove technically impossible. Non-opioid (e.g. ibuprofen / naproxen) and opioid (e.g. oxycodone) forms of analgesia are widely used in pediatric patients with AP or CP, whereas pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy may be beneficial for patients with abdominal pain, steatorrhea, and malnutrition. Despite the disparity in the age of onset, pediatric CP patients display some similarities to adults in terms of disease progress. To reduce the risk of developing pancreatic exocrine inefficiency, diabetes and pancreatic cancer in the future, clinicians need to be aware of the current diagnostic approach and treatment methods for ARP and CP and refer them to a pediatric gastroenterologist in a timely manner.

Genetic Abnormalities in Pancreatitis: An Update on Diagnosis, Clinical Features, and Treatment

Several pancreatitis susceptibility genes have been identified to date. A relationship between a mutation in the cationic trypsinogen (protease serine 1, PRSS1) gene and hereditary pancreatitis (HP) was first identified in 1996. Currently, HP has been defined as either two or more individuals within a family exhibiting pancreatitis for two or more generations, or pancreatitis linked to mutation of the PRSS1 gene. In 2000, a mutation in the serine protease inhibitor gene (Kazal type 1: SPINK1) was reported to be related to sporadic pancreatitis of unknown etiology. This paper reviews and summarizes the current published data on the pancreatitis susceptibility genes, mainly PRSS1 and SPINK1 genes, and introduces a diagnostic and therapeutic approach for dealing with patients with these gene mutations. Patients with these genetic predispositions, both children and adults, have often been initially diagnosed with idiopathic acute pancreatitis, in approximately 20-50% of pediatric cases and 28-80% of adult cases. In such patients, where the etiology is unknown, genetic testing, which requires pre-test and post-test genetic counselling, may prove helpful. Patients with chronic pancreatitis (CP) due to SPINK1 gene mutation and HP patients have a potentially high risk of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, diabetes mellitus, and, of particular importance, pancreatic cancer. Thus, these patients require careful long-term follow-up and management. Specifically, symptomatic CP patients often need endoscopic therapy or surgery, often following a step-up approach beginning with endoscopic therapy and progressing to surgery if necessary, which is similar to the therapeutic approach for patients with CP due to other etiologies. It is important that clinicians are aware of the characteristics of patients with pancreatitis susceptibility genetic abnormalities.

Endoscopic management of local complications of chronic pancreatitis

Endoscopic treatment of local complications in patients with chronic pancreatitis has gained ground over the surgical alternative in the last few years. The lower aggressiveness of endoscopic treatment, as well as the possibility to use it repeatedly in high-risk patients, has favored this development. In addition, the incorporation of new, highly accurate endoscopic therapeutic options such as pancreatoscopy-guided lithotripsy and endoscopic ultrasound-guided treatments make endoscopic treatment the first choice in many cases, despite discordant data in the literature. This article reviews the endoscopic treatment of the most common local complications of chronic pancreatitis, such as pancreatolithiasis, pseudocysts, and pancreatic, biliary, and duodenal ductal stenosis.

Efficacy of fully covered self-expandable metal stents for the management of pancreatic duct strictures in chronic pancreatitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Recently, there has been burgeoning interest in the utilization of fully covered self-expandable metal stents (FCSEMSs) for managing main pancreatic duct strictures (MPDS) in chronic pancreatitis (CP). The primary aim was to investigate stricture resolution and recurrence rates of FCSEMS placement in patients with symptomatic CP complicated with MPDS.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and ISI Web of Science and Cochrane Library (up to December 2019) were searched to identify eligible studies. A meta-analysis of stricture resolution and recurrence rates was carried out using R. The crude rate of adverse events related to stent therapy was also calculated.

RESULTS

Ten studies involving 163 patients were included. The weighted pooled rate of MPDS resolution was 93% (95% confidence interval [95%CI] 84-99%) with substantial heterogeneity (I²  = 63%). Duration of stent placement more than 3 months did not result in a significantly higher resolution rate than that of 3 months or less (93% vs 93%, P = 0.91). The weighted pooled rate of stricture recurrence was 5% (95%CI: 0-12%). The stricture recurrence rate for patients with duration of stent placement more than 3 months (3%; 95%CI: 0-10%) was lower than that in patients with 3 months or less of stent placement (7%; 95%CI: 0-23%), but not significantly (P = 0.45). The overall rate of adverse events related to stent therapy was 34.9%, and spontaneous stent migration occurred in 14.1% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of FCSEMSs appears to be effective and safe in the management of MPDS caused by symptomatic CP.

Preliminary study of a modified, nonflared, short, fully covered metal stent for refractory benign pancreatic duct strictures (with videos)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Fully covered self-expanding metal stents (FCSEMSs) are considered to be more effective than plastic stents for the treatment of main pancreatic duct (MPD) strictures associated with chronic pancreatitis (CP) because of their larger diameter and exertion of a radial expansion force. However, the current FCSEMSs have several limitations. To overcome these, a novel modified nonflared FCSEMS was developed. In this study we conducted a prospective long-term follow-up evaluation of the efficacy of the novel FCSEMS for the treatment of refractory benign PD strictures in patients with CP.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with symptomatic CP associated with refractory MPD strictures were enrolled prospectively in this single-arm study. The nonflared FCSEMS was placed intraductally or transpapillary according to the location and length of the stricture. Stent removal was performed at 3 months after placement. The primary outcome was the resolution of the pancreatic ductal stricture.

RESULTS

Endoscopic placement of modified nonflared FCSEMSs was technically successful in all 25 patients. Intraductal FCSEMS placement was performed in 14 patients (56.0%). Stents of diameter 8 mm were used in 17 patients (68.0%). Stents of lengths 3 and 5 cm were inserted in 22 (88.0%) and 3 (12.0%) patients, respectively. In 1 patient (4.0%), stent migration developed. All other stents were removed successfully. After stent removal, resolution of the MPD stricture was confirmed in all patients, and no FCSEMS-related de novo stricture was observed. During the follow-up period (median, 34 months; interquartile range, 25-56) after the stents had been removed from the 25 patients, reintervention for recurrence of MPD stricture with abdominal pain was performed in 2 patients (8.0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic placement of a novel modified nonflared FCSEMS resulted in long-term stricture resolution with pain relief and reduced the rate of stent-related adverse events, particularly stent migration and stent-induced de novo MPD stricture. (Clinical trial registration number: UMIN000035681.).

Multiple stents are not superior to single stent insertion for pain relief in patients with chronic pancreatitis: a retrospective comparative study

Background and study aims  Patients with painful chronic pancreatitis (CP) and distal main pancreatic duct (MPD) stricture are considered candidates for treatment using a single plastic stent insertion. Multiple side-by-side stents have been proposed as an alternative treatment but comparative studies are lacking. The aim of this retrospective study is to assess differences in characteristics and treatment outcomes in patients with CP and MPD strictures treated with a different number of stents during the stenting period. Patients and methods  Patients with painful CP and distal MPD obstruction requiring endoscopic treatment (01.2004 - 12.2012) were considered. The study population was divided in three groups: Patients treated with (A) exclusively one stent; (B) one or two stents; and (C) exclusively two stents during the stenting period. Patient characteristics and treatment outcomes were retrospectively assessed. Results  Among 284 patients, 85 were selected according to inclusion criteria (Group A: 18, Group B: 35, Group C: 32). Median follow-up duration was 84 months. The median number of endoscopic procedures needed was higher for group B [3 (A) vs. 3 (C) vs. 4 (B), P  = 0.001]. Regarding outcome, successful endoscopic treatment was lower in Group C (50 % vs. 88.2 % and 74.2 % for groups A and B, respectively; P  = 0.02). This difference was attributed to better clinical outcome in Group A compared to Group C patients [OR(95%CI): 7.50 (1.46 - 38.70); P  = 0.04]. Moreover, group C patients experienced higher levels of pain at the end of follow-up period [median Izbicki Score 0 (group A) vs. 0 (group B) vs. 6 (group C), P  = 0.03]. Conclusions  In patients with painful CP and distal MPD obstruction, treatment with a single stent is associated with better clinical outcome compared to treatment with exclusively two stents during the stenting period.

A randomized-controlled trial of early endotherapy versus wait-and-see policy for mild symptomatic pancreatic stones in chronic pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Although surgical or endoscopic treatment is effective for pain control in symptomatic calcified chronic pancreatitis, it is still unknown whether early intervention in mild symptomatic pancreatic stones would reduce the frequency of acute exacerbation and improve long-term outcomes. The aim of this randomized-controlled trial was to explore the efficacy of early endotherapy for mild symptomatic pancreatic stones in comparison with the wait-and-see policy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with mild symptoms because of pancreatic stones were assigned randomly to the endotherapy or the wait-and-see group. The wait-and-see group received endotherapy only when they developed refractory exacerbation or intractable pain. The primary outcome was the cumulative incidence of intolerable pain attacks and acute exacerbation. The secondary outcomes were the development of pancreatic insufficiency and the progression of pancreatic atrophy.

RESULTS

A total of 20 patients were enrolled between March 2008 and March 2011. The study was terminated prematurely because of the poor patient enrollment. Early endotherapy tended to reduce the cumulative incidence of pain attacks and exacerbation, (P=0.17) with the composite incidence of pain attacks and exacerbation of 30% in the endotherapy group and 60% in the wait-and-see group. There were no significant differences in terms of diabetic status and the presence of steatorrhea. The thickness of the pancreas decreased significantly in the wait-and-see group (9.2-6.8 mm, P=0.041), but not in the endotherapy group (8.7-9.0 mm, P=0.60).

CONCLUSION

In a small group of patients, early endotherapy in mild symptomatic chronic pancreatitis was associated with a trend toward a minor number of acute attacks and atrophy progression of the pancreas.

Fully covered self-expanding metal stents for benign refractory pancreatic duct strictures in chronic pancreatitis

Background: Pancreatic duct (PD) stricture is a common adverse event in chronic pancreatitis (CP). Primary treatment for refractory PD strictures is endotherapy (ET), including the insertion of multiple plastic stents. In addition, fully covered self-expandable metal stents (FC-SEMSs) have also been successfully used. More long-term studies are necessary to clarify the complication rate and efficiency, however. Methods: This retrospective study was comprised of 17 patients with symptomatic CP and refractory fibrotic main pancreatic duct (MPD) stricture treated with FC-SEMSs between 2010-2018 at the Helsinki University Hospital. Treated strictures were located in the pancreatic head. Technical success was defined as the accurate positioning of the stent and resolution of the MPD stricture. Clinical success was defined as pain relief at the end of the follow-up. Results: In 12 patients (71%), stricture resolution was accomplished. Clinical success was achieved in 12 patients (71%). The median duration of stenting was 169 days (range 15-804). Ten patients (58.8%) underwent a follow-up of two years or more. Early complications (≤7 days) occurred in two patients (12%): one pancreatitis and one cholestasis. Late complications (≥7 days) included severe abdominal pain (n = 2, 12%), pancreatitis (n = 3, 18%), cholestasis (n = 1, 6%) and stent migration (n = 7, 35%). Significant differences in stricture resolution and pain improvement were evident in patients with stent migration compared to patients without stent migration [1(14.3%) vs. 11(84.6%), p = .004 and 2(28.6%) vs. 11(84.6%), p = .022]. Conclusion: FC-SEMS placement is a safe and potentially effective treatment for this challenging group of patients. However, stent migration appears to affect the clinical and technical outcome.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided pancreatic duct drainage

Endoscopic transpapillary or transanastomotic pancreatic duct drainage (PD) is the mainstay of drainage in symptomatic pancreatic duct obstruction or leakage. However, transpapillary or transanastomotic PD can be technically difficult due to the tight stricture or surgically altered anatomy (SAA), and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided PD (EUS-PD) is now increasingly used as an alternative technique. There are two approaches in EUS-PD: EUS-guided rendezvous (EUS-RV) and EUS-guided transmural drainage (EUS-TMD). In cases with normal anatomy, EUS-RV should be the first approach, whereas EUS-TMD can be selected in cases with SAA or duodenal obstruction. In our literature review, technical success and adverse event rates were 78.7% and 21.8%, respectively. The technical success rate of EUS-RV appeared lower than EUS-TMD due to the difficulty in guidewire passage. In future, development of dedicated devices and standardization of EUS-PD procedure are necessary.

Pilot Study of Dumbbell-Type Covered Self-Expandable Metal Stent Deployment for Benign Pancreatic Duct Stricture (with Videos)

BACKGROUND

Fully-covered, self-expandable metal stents (FCSEMS) have been deployed to treat symptomatic chronic pancreatitis (CP) complicated with main pancreatic duct (MPD) stricture. Although this strategy can be effective, it has the disadvantages of stent migration or stent-induced ductal change. Removal of an FCSEMS can also be challenging in the face of distal migration because of MPD stricture. Dumbbell-type FCSEMS have been developed to prevent stent-induced ductal changes and improve removability when treating benign biliary stricture. This stent might also confer clinical benefits upon patients with MPD stricture.

AIMS

The present pilot study aimed to determine the feasibility and safety of deploying dumbbell-type FCSEMS in patients with CP complicated by MPD stricture.

METHOD

Stents were deployed in 22 patients with MPD stricture caused by CP and complicated by abdominal pain.

RESULTS

Strictures were located at the head (n = 19), body (n = 2), and head and tail (n = 1) of the MPD. Stents were deployed above the papilla in three patients. All stents were deployed for a median duration of 142 (range, 49-190) days and removed. The resolution of MPD strictures was confirmed by pancreatography in 19 (86.3%) patients. Two metal stents that spontaneously tore during removal from two patients had otherwise functioned normally. Only three patients developed recurrent MPD stricture during a median follow-up of 419 (range, 261-484) days..

CONCLUSIONS

Deployment of a dumbbell-type FCSEMS seems feasible for MPD stricture, and the rate of adverse events is acceptable.

Pilot Study of Dumbbell-Type Covered Self-Expandable Metal Stent Deployment for Benign Pancreatic Duct Stricture (with Videos)

BACKGROUND

Fully-covered, self-expandable metal stents (FCSEMS) have been deployed to treat symptomatic chronic pancreatitis (CP) complicated with main pancreatic duct (MPD) stricture. Although this strategy can be effective, it has the disadvantages of stent migration or stent-induced ductal change. Removal of an FCSEMS can also be challenging in the face of distal migration because of MPD stricture. Dumbbell-type FCSEMS have been developed to prevent stent-induced ductal changes and improve removability when treating benign biliary stricture. This stent might also confer clinical benefits upon patients with MPD stricture.

AIMS

The present pilot study aimed to determine the feasibility and safety of deploying dumbbell-type FCSEMS in patients with CP complicated by MPD stricture.

METHOD

Stents were deployed in 22 patients with MPD stricture caused by CP and complicated by abdominal pain.

RESULTS

Strictures were located at the head (n = 19), body (n = 2), and head and tail (n = 1) of the MPD. Stents were deployed above the papilla in three patients. All stents were deployed for a median duration of 142 (range, 49-190) days and removed. The resolution of MPD strictures was confirmed by pancreatography in 19 (86.3%) patients. Two metal stents that spontaneously tore during removal from two patients had otherwise functioned normally. Only three patients developed recurrent MPD stricture during a median follow-up of 419 (range, 261-484) days..

CONCLUSIONS

Deployment of a dumbbell-type FCSEMS seems feasible for MPD stricture, and the rate of adverse events is acceptable.

Fully covered self-expandable metal stents to dilate persistent pancreatic strictures in chronic pancreatitis: long-term follow-up from a prospective study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Symptomatic main pancreatic duct (MPD) strictures secondary to chronic pancreatitis (CP) may benefit from endoscopic insertion of single or multiple plastic stents. MPD stricture resolution after single plastic stent removal is uncommon. The use of removable fully covered, self-expandable metal stents (FC-SEMSs) to dilate MPD strictures secondary to CP was evaluated.

METHODS

Patients with CP and symptomatic MPD stricture located in the head of the pancreas persisting for 3 months or more after placement of a single plastic stent were enrolled in a prospective single-arm trial. A nitinol FC-SEMS was inserted and removed after 6 months. The FC-SEMS diameter and length were chosen according to the stricture anatomy and MPD diameter above the stricture. Our primary objective was FC-SEMS removability. Secondary outcomes were MPD stricture resolution rate and adverse events.

RESULTS

Between December 2012 and October 2014, 15 patients (10 male, mean age 60 years) were enrolled. Pancreatic calcifications were present in 6 (40%) patients. Four patients (27%) had a history of alcohol abuse. In 10 patients, the FC-SEMS was inserted through the major papilla, whereas 5 patients (3 pancreas divisum, 2 dominant dorsal duct) received the stent through the minor papilla. One patient developed cholangitis after 24 hours due to occlusion of the biliary sphincterotomy from the FC-SEMS; cholangitis resolved after insertion of a plastic biliary stent. Complete distal migration of the FC-SEMS was reported in 7 patients (47%) (5 asymptomatic, 2 symptomatic with recurrence of pancreatitis). All migrations occurred with the 3-cm-long FC-SEMS. Four patients (27%) developed de novo stricture induced by the FC-SEMS at the level of the flared end and were excluded from the follow-up; 1 patient with FC-SEMS migration had failed stricture resolution. One patient was lost to follow-up. Finally, 9 patients with MPD stricture resolution had a mean follow-up of 38.9 months (range, 5.3-55.3 months), and 89% were asymptomatic.

CONCLUSIONS

FC-SEMS removability from the MPD in CP was feasible in all cases, and 90% of the patients were asymptomatic after 3 years. Migration seems more frequent with the 3-cm-long FC-SEMS. Occurrence of FC-SEMS-induced pancreatic strictures is a major issue and deserves further assessment. According to our experience, pancreatic FC-SEMSs have promising results, but a careful evaluation in the setting of clinical trials is needed.

Management of Benign and Malignant Pancreatic Duct Strictures

The diagnosis and management of pancreatic strictures, whether malignant or benign, remain challenging. The last 2 decades have seen dramatic progress in terms of both advanced imaging and endoscopic therapy. While plastic stents remain the cornerstone of the treatment of benign strictures, the advent of fully covered metal stents has initiated a new wave of interest in calibrating the pancreatic duct with fewer sessions. In malignant disease, palliation remains the priority and further data are necessary before offering systematic pancreatic stenting.

A biodegradable non-covered self-expandable stent to treat pancreatic duct strictures in chronic pancreatitis: a proof of principle

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

In chronic pancreatitis (CP), fibrotic pancreatic duct (PD) strictures pose a therapeutic challenge, because endoscopic dilatation requires multiple procedures with suboptimal results. Biodegradable self-expandable stents (BD-SESs) may serve as an alternative in this setting.

METHODS

Patients with CP were eligible for this proof-of-principle study if at least 6 months of endoscopic dilatation with plastic stents had failed to resolve their PD stricture. The non-covered BD-SESs were expected to degrade within 3 to 6 months. Patients were followed at 3-monthly intervals for 1 year. Placement success and safety were the primary outcome parameters. Stricture resolution was assessed by ERCP after 6 months.

RESULTS

BD-SESs were successfully placed in all 19 patients without adverse events. In 2 cases, stent occlusion with sludge and stones was treated by a balloon swipe. One stent disintegrated during this procedure, after which placement of the plastic stent was resumed. A hyperplastic response was observed in 2 patients but did not result in functional obstruction. Stricture resolution was accomplished in 11 patients (technical success rate 58%). Six patients required further treatment of their PD stricture, 4 endoscopically and 2 surgically. Three additional patients underwent surgery for other reasons: 2 Whipple procedures for CP-related adverse events and one tail resection for an intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm. The remaining 10 patients did not require further PD drainage (clinical success rate 52%).

CONCLUSIONS

These preliminary results show that BD-SESs are safe to use and able to resolve fibrotic PD strictures in CP. These encouraging outcomes warrant further testing.