Complications of diagnostic and therapeutic ERCP: a prospective multicenter study

6-mm vs 10-mm diameter fully covered self-expandable metal stents in patients with unresectable malignant distal bile duct stricture (COSMIC UNISON): study protocol for a multicenter, randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Unresectable malignant bile duct stricture (often caused by unresectable pancreatic cancer and cholangiocarcinoma) can be drained via insertion of self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Because recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO) and complications following stent insertion can delay chemotherapy and other treatments, a longer time to RBO (TRBO) is desirable. Although a longer TRBO has been reported among patients who undergo insertion with larger diameter SEMS, patients who undergo insertion with smaller diameter fully covered SEMS (FCSEMS) may have a lower incidence of complications than those with larger diameter FCSEMS. The aim of this study is to determine the TRBO and incidence of complications with 6-mm FCSEMS vs 10-mm FCSEMS in patients with unresectable malignant distal bile duct stricture.

METHODS

In this multicenter, open-label, randomized controlled, non-inferiority trial (COSMIC UNISON), a target of 250 patients over 23 locations in Japan will receive either the 6-mm FCSEM or the standard 10-mm FCSEM during ERCP, with 125 patients in each group. The observation period will be 24 months, and patients will be enrolled from 15 March 2024 and assessed until the date of RBO or the study end (31 March 2029). The primary endpoint is TRBO, with RBO defined as the coexistence of abnormal liver enzyme values and dilation of the common bile duct and intrahepatic bile duct upstream of the stent. The secondary endpoints are the incidence and rates (at 3, 6, and 12 months) of non-RBO events, overall survival, cause of RBO, and symptomatic stent deviation. Adverse events from endoscopic procedures will be classified by the Lexicon Classification from the American Society of Endoscopy, and all other adverse events will be classified per the Japanese translation of the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0.

DISCUSSION

The COSMIC UNISON study is anticipated to provide evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of 6-mm vs 10-mm FCSEMS to inform the use of 6-mm FCSEMS for the treatment of unresectable malignant distal bile duct stricture.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Japan Registry of Clinical Trials identifier: jRCT1042230170. Prospectively registered on 15 March 2024.

A new preprocedural predictive risk model for post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis: The SuPER model

Background

Post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP) is a severe and deadly adverse event following ERCP. The ideal method for predicting PEP risk before ERCP has yet to be identified. We aimed to establish a simple PEP risk score model (SuPER model: Support for PEP Reduction) that can be applied before ERCP.

Methods

This multicenter study enrolled 2074 patients who underwent ERCP. Among them, 1037 patients each were randomly assigned to the development and validation cohorts. In the development cohort, the risk score model for predicting PEP was established via logistic regression analysis. In the validation cohort, the performance of the model was assessed.

Results

In the development cohort, five PEP risk factors that could be identified before ERCP were extracted and assigned weights according to their respective regression coefficients: -2 points for pancreatic calcification, 1 point for female sex, and 2 points for intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm, a native papilla of Vater, or the pancreatic duct procedures (treated as 'planned pancreatic duct procedures' for calculating the score before ERCP). The PEP occurrence rate was 0% among low-risk patients (≤0 points), 5.5% among moderate-risk patients (1-3 points), and 20.2% among high-risk patients (4-7 points). In the validation cohort, the C statistic of the risk score model was 0.71 (95% CI 0.64-0.78), which was considered acceptable. The PEP risk classification (low, moderate, and high) was a significant predictive factor for PEP that was independent of intraprocedural PEP risk factors (precut sphincterotomy and inadvertent pancreatic duct cannulation) (OR 4.2, 95% CI 2.8-6.3; p<0.01).

Conclusions

The PEP risk score allows an estimation of the risk of PEP prior to ERCP, regardless of whether the patient has undergone pancreatic duct procedures. This simple risk model, consisting of only five items, may aid in predicting and explaining the risk of PEP before ERCP and in preventing PEP by allowing selection of the appropriate expert endoscopist and useful PEP prophylaxes.

Funding

No external funding was received for this work.

Development and validation of a machine learning-based, point-of-care risk calculator for post-ERCP pancreatitis and prophylaxis selection

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

A robust model of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) risk is not currently available. We aimed to develop a machine learning-based tool for PEP risk prediction to aid in clinical decision making related to periprocedural prophylaxis selection and postprocedural monitoring.

METHODS

Feature selection, model training, and validation were performed using patient-level data from 12 randomized controlled trials. A gradient-boosted machine (GBM) model was trained to estimate PEP risk, and the performance of the resulting model was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) with 5-fold cross-validation. A web-based clinical decision-making tool was created, and a prospective pilot study was performed using data from ERCPs performed at the Johns Hopkins Hospital over a 1-month period.

RESULTS

A total of 7389 patients were included in the GBM with an 8.6% rate of PEP. The model was trained on 20 PEP risk factors and 5 prophylactic interventions (rectal nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs], aggressive hydration, combined rectal NSAIDs and aggressive hydration, pancreatic duct stenting, and combined rectal NSAIDs and pancreatic duct stenting). The resulting GBM model had an AUC of 0.70 (65% specificity, 65% sensitivity, 95% negative predictive value, and 15% positive predictive value). A total of 135 patients were included in the prospective pilot study, resulting in an AUC of 0.74.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates the feasibility and utility of a novel machine learning-based PEP risk estimation tool with high negative predictive value to aid in prophylaxis selection and identify patients at low risk who may not require extended postprocedure monitoring.

Factors Associated with the Severity of ERCP-Related Complications: A Retrospective Single-Centre Study

Objectives: Risk factors for post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) complications have been extensively studied and are well established; most complications are mild and self-limiting. This study aims to identify patients at risk of severe early post-ERCP complications. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study with data from 2810 ERCP procedures performed at Ghent University Hospital between 2016 and 2022. Patient records and a maintained ERCP registry were used to identify all ERCP-related complications and possible risk factors. The AGREE classification was used to determine the severity of the complication. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of severe complications. Results: Out of 2810 procedures, 223 cases (7.9%) had post-ERCP complications, with severe complications occurring in 20.3% of cases. The most common severe complication was haemorrhage (22/49 severe complications, 44.9%), with perforation having the highest probability of being severe (10/15 cases, 67%). Independent predictors of severe complications included anticoagulative therapy (OR 6.3, 95% CI 1.4-28.3, p = 0.016) and high procedural difficulty (Schutz category 3: OR 11.5, 95% CI 2.4-54.6, p = 0.002; category 4: OR 5.9, 95% CI 1.4-23.5, p = 0.012). Conclusions: Patients on anticoagulation and those undergoing complex ERCP procedures (Schutz 3 or 4) are at particular risk of severe procedure-related complications.

Current status and issues for prediction and prevention of postendoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis, which sometimes results in mortality, is a significant complication of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Many studies have been conducted to predict and prevent post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP), and meta-analyses have been reported that summarized these studies. However, many issues remain unresolved. Many risk factors for PEP have been reported, and it is rare for patients undergoing ERCP to have only one risk factor. The use of artificial intelligence may be important for analyzing complex and diverse risk factors. It is desirable to develop an alternative test for pancreatic enzymes that can predict the onset of PEP within 1 h after ERCP. The effectiveness of low-dose nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are controversial. Nitrate and tacrolimus are considered medications that have additional effects on NSAIDs and may be used for the prevention of PEP. Pancreatic stent placement with deliberate placement of the guidewire into the pancreatic duct may be more effective in preventing PEP. A comparison between transpancreatic sphincterotomy with deliberate guidewire placement into the pancreatic duct and needle-knife precut sphincterotomy is necessary. Early precutting is thought to be effective for the prevention of PEP, and the effectiveness of primary precut has been reported. However, the optimal timing of precut for the prevention of PEP has not been sufficiently discussed. Further research on prediction and prevention must be conducted to eliminate the mortality caused by PEP.

Incidence, Predictors, and Outcomes of Clinically Significant Post-Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Bleeding: A Contemporary Multicenter Study

INTRODUCTION

Clinically significant post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) bleeding (CSPEB) is common. Contemporary estimates of risk are lacking. We aimed to identify risk factors of and outcomes after CSPEB.

METHODS

We analyzed multicenter prospective ERCP data between 2018 and 2024 with 30-day follow-up. The primary outcome was CSPEB, defined as hematemesis, melena, or hematochezia resulting in (i) hemoglobin drop ≥ 20 g/L or transfusion and/or (ii) endoscopy to evaluate suspected bleeding and/or (iii) unplanned healthcare visitation and/or prolongation of existing admission. Firth logistic regression was used. P values <0.05 were significant, with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals reported.

RESULTS

CSPEB occurred after 129 (1.5%) of 8,517 ERCPs (mean onset 3.2 days), with 110 of 4,849 events (2.3%) occurring after higher risk interventions (sphincterotomy, sphincteroplasty, precut sphincterotomy, and/or needle-knife access). Patients with CSPEB required endoscopy and transfusion in 86.0% and 53.5% of cases, respectively, with 3 cases (2.3%) being fatal. P2Y 12 inhibitors were held for a median of 4 days (interquartile range 4) before higher risk ERCP. After higher risk interventions, P2Y 12 inhibitors (OR 3.33, 1.26-7.74), warfarin (OR 8.54, 3.32-19.81), dabigatran (OR 13.40, 2.06-59.96), rivaroxaban (OR 7.42, 3.43-15.24), and apixaban (OR 4.16, 1.99-8.20) were associated with CSPEB. Significant intraprocedural bleeding after sphincterotomy (OR 2.32, 1.06-4.60), but not after sphincteroplasty, was also associated. Concomitant cardiorespiratory events occurred more frequently within 30 days after CSPEB (OR 12.71, 4.75-32.54).

DISCUSSION

Risks of antiplatelet-related CSPEB may be underestimated by endoscopists based on observations of suboptimal holding before higher risk ERCP. Appropriate periprocedural antithrombotic management is essential and could represent novel quality initiative targets.

Prophylactic use of a self-assembling peptide hydrogel for preventing delayed bleeding after endoscopic sphincterotomy: A propensity score-matched analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Delayed endoscopic sphincterotomy-related bleeding (ES bleeding) is an unavoidable adverse event (AE) that can have serious ramifications. Intraoperative ES bleeding, which stops spontaneously in most cases, is a known risk factor for delayed bleeding. This study aimed to examine the preventive effect of a novel self-assembling peptide (SAP) for delayed ES bleeding in patients who attained spontaneous hemostasis after intraoperative ES bleeding.

METHODS

A total of 1507 patients met the eligibility criteria for inclusion in this study. The rates of delayed ES bleeding and AE besides bleeding were compared between patients administered the SAP (SAP group) and those who were simply observed after spontaneous hemostasis of intraoperative ES bleeding (control group). Propensity score matching was performed to adjust for differences between the groups.

RESULTS

The rate of delayed ES bleeding was significantly lower in the SAP group than that in the control group (0.9% vs 3.8%, P = 0.044). The rates of AEs other than bleeding were 2.4% and 3.8% in the SAP and control groups, respectively, and the difference lacked statistical significance (P = 0.481). Multivariate analysis revealed that the use of SAP was significantly associated with a lower frequency of delayed ES bleeding (odds ratio, 0.35; 95% confidence interval, 0.13-0.98; P = 0.047).

CONCLUSIONS

Self-assembling peptide may be a simple, safe, and useful way to reduce the risk of delayed ES bleeding in patients who experienced intraoperative ES bleeding and obtained subsequent spontaneous hemostasis.

[Quality Indicators of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography in Korea]

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a procedure that requires abundant clinical experience and endoscopic skills, and can lead to various complications, some of which may progress to life-threatening conditions. With expanding indications and technological advancements, ERCP is widely utilized, enhancing procedural accessibility. However, without proper quality management, the procedure can pose significant risks. Quality management in ERCP is essential to ensure safe and successful procedures and meet societal demands for improved healthcare competitiveness. To address these concerns, the Korean Society of Pancreatobiliary Endoscopy has developed a Korean-specific ERCP quality indicator reflecting domestic medical environments and realities. Initially, based on a review of foreign ERCP quality indicators and related literatures, key questions were formulated for five pre-procedural items, three intra-procedural items, and four post-procedural items. Descriptions and recommendations for each item were selected through peer evaluation. The developed Korean-specific ERCP quality indicator was reviewed by external experts based on the latest evidence and consensus in this fields. This Korean-specific indicator is expected to significantly contribute to improving ERCP quality in Korea, as it is tailored to local needs.

Comparative Study of Endoscopic Treatment for Intrahepatic and Common Bile Duct Stones Using Peroral Cholangioscopy

Objectives: Although peroral cholangioscopy has improved the endoscopic treatment of difficult stones, the treatment of intrahepatic stones remains challenging. The incidence of cholangitis is high when peroral cholangioscopy is used to treat intrahepatic stones. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic treatment with peroral cholangioscopy for intrahepatic and common bile duct stones. Methods: Patients aged ≥20 years, who underwent endoscopic treatment with peroral cholangioscopy for intrahepatic or common bile duct stones at Tottori University Hospital from January 2016 to December 2022, were retrospectively evaluated to determine the efficacy and safety of the treatment. Results: Overall, 70 patients were included in this study: 22 in the intrahepatic stone group and 48 in the common bile duct stone group. Stones were smaller (8 vs. 17.5 mm, p < 0.001) and more numerous (p = 0.016) in the intrahepatic stone group than in the common bile duct stone group. Although the common bile duct stone group exhibited a higher rate of complete stone clearance in the first session, no significant differences were observed in the final results. The intrahepatic stone group had a higher incidence of cholangitis (36% vs. 8%, p = 0.007); however, all cases were mild. Conclusions: Endoscopic treatment with peroral cholangioscopy for intrahepatic stones may be associated with a higher incidence of cholangitis than that for common bile duct stones. Since saline irrigation may contribute to the development of cholangitis, it is important to be aware of intraductal bile duct pressure when performing peroral cholangioscopy.

Quality Indicators of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography in Korea

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a procedure that requires significant experiences and skills and has various procedure-related complications, some of which can be severe and even result in the death of patients. Expanding ERCP availability has the advantage of increasing accessibility for patients. However, ERCP poses a substantial risk if performed without proper quality management. ERCP quality management is essential for both ensuring safe and successful procedures and meeting the social demands for enhanced healthcare competitiveness and quality assurance. To address these concerns, the Korean Pancreatobiliary Association established a task force to develop ERCP quality indicators (QIs) tailored to the Korean medical environment. Key questions for five pre-procedure, three intra-procedure, and four post-procedure measures were formulated based on a literature search related to ERCP QIs and a comprehensive clinical review conducted by experts. The statements and recommendations regarding each QI item were selected through peer review. The developed ERCP QIs were reviewed by external experts based on the latest available evidence at the time of development. These domestically tailored ERCP QIs are expected to contribute considerably to improving ERCP quality in Korea.

Risk Factors for Infectious Complications following Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography in Liver Transplant Patients: A Single-Center Study

Background: Liver transplant recipients often require endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for biliary complications, which can lead to infections. This retrospective single-center study aimed to identify risk factors for infectious complications following ERCP in liver transplant patients. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 285 elective ERCP interventions performed in 88 liver transplant patients at a tertiary care center. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of an infection following ERCP. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses, Cox regression, and log-rank tests were employed to assess the influence of various factors on the incidence of infectious complications. Results: Among the 285 ERCP interventions, isolated anastomotic stenosis was found in 175 cases, ischemic type biliary lesion (ITBL) in 103 cases, and choledocholithiasis in seven cases. Bile duct interventions were performed in 96.9% of all ERCPs. Infections after ERCP occurred in 46 cases (16.1%). Independent risk factors for infection included male sex (OR 24.19), prednisolone therapy (OR 4.5), ITBL (OR 4.51), sphincterotomy (OR 2.44), cholangioscopy (OR 3.22), dilatation therapy of the bile ducts (OR 9.48), and delayed prophylactic antibiotic therapy (>1 h after ERCP) (OR 2.93). Additionally, infections following previous ERCP interventions were associated with an increased incidence of infections following future ERCP interventions (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: In liver transplant patients undergoing ERCP, male sex, prednisolone therapy, and complex bile duct interventions independently raised infection risks. Delayed antibiotic treatment further increased this risk. Patients with ITBL were notably susceptible due to incomplete drainage. Additionally, a history of post-ERCP infections signaled higher future risks, necessitating close monitoring and timely antibiotic prophylaxis.

Endoscopic ultrasound avoids diagnostic ERCP among the ASGE high-risk group - Experience in an Asian population

BACKGROUND

A prediction system for common bile duct (CBD) stones was originally published by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) in 2010 and was last revised in 2019. We wanted to investigate its application in an Asian population, who have different etiologies of bile duct stone formation and accessibility to medical service compared to the West.

METHODS

This is a single center retrospective study. Patients who received endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for suspected CBD stones were collected from our endoscopic record system over a 10-year period. The accuracy of the revised ASGE criteria was estimated according to the results of EUS. A minimum follow-up of 6 months was required to detect false negative results.

RESULTS

142 patients were enrolled, 87 (61%) patients had CBD stones. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy of the revised ASGE criteria for high-risk patients were 69%, 38%, 64%, 44%, and 57%. 36% of the ASGE-defined high-risk patients negative for CBD stones on EUS. The two significant predictors for CBD stone were CBD dilatation (adjusted OR 3.06, 95% C.I. 1.31-7.17, p = 0.010) and ascending cholangitis (adjusted OR 2.28, 95% C.I. 1.01-5.15, p = 0.047).

CONCLUSION

ASGE recommends that patients defined as high-risk for choledocholithiasis be considered for direct ERCP without prior need for confirmation imaging. However, our findings indicate a high rate (36%) of patients in that group negative for CBD stones on EUS. Hence, EUS is still be suggested first in selective high-risk patients so that diagnostic ERCP can be avoided in our Asian society.

Determining the Risk Factors of Complications Due to Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography

Background and objective The effective use of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has been on the rise in diagnosing and treating benign and malignant pathologies of the common bile duct and pancreas. ERCP, a complex procedure requiring high knowledge, skills, and practice, differs from other endoscopic applications as it involves the use of different techniques and equipment and the occurrence of more complications. The most commonly observed complications of ERCP are pancreatitis, bleeding, perforation, and infections. In this study, we aimed to assess the incidence of post-ERCP complications to identify the associated risk factors and indications. Methodology In this study, 181 ERCP procedures performed on 122 consecutive patients in the endoscopy unit of Istanbul Training Hospital were prospectively evaluated by using an observational method to determine the frequency of and risk factors for post-ERCP complications. The patients were followed up in the course of the ERCP procedure and for 30 days after the procedure; the complications and clinical developments were recorded. Results The mean age of the cohort was 59.7 ± 17.7 (19-97) years; 40.9% were female and 59.1% were male. The cannulation success was achieved in 77.3% of the ERCP procedure performed. Among the ERCP procedures applied, 89% were performed for therapeutic purposes, and choledocholithiasis (60.2%) was the most common indication for ERCP. Major complications were detected in 25.4% of the patients after ERCP. The most common major complication was cholangitis (9.9%), followed by pancreatitis (7.2%), cholecystitis (5.5%), bleeding (3.9%), and perforation (1.1%). It was observed that sphincterotomy was associated with an increase in all complications. The incidence of cholangitis decreased in the presence of dilated bile ducts unrelated to obstruction. The increased incidence of pancreatitis was associated with the female gender, the use of sphincterotomy and basket, inexperienced endoscopists, and inpatient admissions. The incidence of cholecystitis, on the other hand, was found to be linked with sphincterotomy and inexperienced endoscopists. Conclusions ERCP is a complex endoscopic procedure that requires high technical knowledge and skill and can cause serious complications. For endoscopists to perform clinically effective and accurate ERCP, it is important that they correctly determine the indications for the procedure, know its potential complications, and refrain from practices that will create complications and are unnecessary as much as possible.

Differentiation of malignant from benign ampullary strictures: A prediction nomogram based on MR imaging and clinical findings

PURPOSE

To construct a predictive nomogram based on contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and clinical findings for differentiating malignant from benign ampullary strictures.

METHOD

In this retrospective study, 76 patients with ampullary strictures (51 benign and 25 malignant) who underwent contrast-enhanced MRI were enrolled. Imaging findings were evaluated independently by two abdominal radiologists who reached consensus. Clinical findings were also collected. Significant findings for malignant ampullary strictures were assessed by univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Based on the results of multivariable analysis, a nomogram to differentiate malignant from benign ampullary strictures was developed and internally validated.

RESULTS

In multivariable analysis, presence of an ampullary mass (odds ratio [OR]: 8.42, p = 0.047), bulging ampulla (OR: 8.32, p = 0.033), diffusion restriction of the ampulla (OR: 42.76, p = 0.004) on MRI, and jaundice (OR: 12.41, p = 0.019) were significant predictors of malignant ampullary strictures. A predictive nomogram was constructed using these findings. Among them, diffusion restriction of the ampulla showed the highest OR and predictor score on the nomogram. The calibration plots for internal validation achieved strong agreement between the predicted probabilities and the actual rates of malignant ampullary strictures.

CONCLUSION

A combination of significant contrast-enhanced MRI and clinical findings of ampullary mass, bulging ampulla, diffusion restriction of the ampulla, and jaundice may be useful in the prediction of malignant ampullary stricture.

Risk factors for post‑retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis in patients with common bile duct stones: A meta‑analysis

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has become a common treatment method for common bile duct stones. However, ERCP is also associated with a high risk of post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis (PEP). Identification of risk factors is essential for reducing the incidence of PEP. The present study aimed to summarize the risk factors for PEP by performing a meta-analysis. Therefore, studies published between 2000 and 2022 were screened in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Digital Periodicals and the Weipu Database, with no language restrictions. Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess the quality of the included studies. Stata 17.0 software was utilized for the meta-analysis of 14 possible risk factors. Overall, 15 high-quality studies were included into the present meta-analysis. The results showed that female [odds ratio (OR), 1.42; 95% CI, 1.23-1.64), age <60 years (OR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.06-2.21), difficult intubation (OR, 4.87; 95% CI, 2.73-8.68), ≥3 cannulation attempts (OR, 9.64; 95% CI, 4.16-22.35), cannulation time ≥10 min (OR, 2.37; 95% CI, 1.67-3.35), history of pancreatitis (OR, 2.95; 95% CI, 1.06-5.51), pancreatic duct visualization (OR, 3.63; 95% CI, 2.47-5.34) and sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (OR, 5.72; 95% CI, 1.80-18.24) are potential risk factors for PEP (P<0.05). In conclusion, the present meta-analysis suggests that PEP can be affected by several risk factors, particularly the technique-related factors such as the frequency and time of cannulation. Therefore, effective precautions should be taken as early as possible to reduce the incidence of PEP.

The efficacy of a novel integrated outside biliary stent and nasobiliary drainage catheter system for acute cholangitis: a single center pilot study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Endoscopic biliary drainage is the gold standard treatment for cholangitis. The two methods of biliary drainage are endoscopic biliary stenting and nasobiliary drainage. A novel integrated outside biliary stent and nasobiliary drainage catheter system (UMIDAS NB stent; Olympus Medical Systems) was recently developed. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of this stent in the treatment of cholangitis caused by common bile duct stones or distal bile duct strictures.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective pilot study by examining the medical records of patients who required endoscopic biliary drainage for cholangitis due to common bile duct stones or distal bile duct strictures, and who were treated with a UMIDAS NB stent, between December 2021 and July 2022.

RESULTS

Records of 54 consecutive patients were reviewed. Technical and clinical success rates were 47/54 (87.0%) and 52/54 (96.3%), respectively. Adverse events were observed in 12 patients, with six patients experiencing pancreatitis as an adverse event, following endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Regarding late adverse events, five cases of biliary stent migration into the bile duct were observed. Disease-related death occurred in one patient.

CONCLUSION

The outside-type UMIDAS NB stent is an efficacious new method for biliary drainage and can be applied to many indications.

Management of Pancreatic Duct Stones: Nonextracorporeal Approach

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is an ongoing inflammatory disease with most patients developing pancreatic calculi during their course of disease. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a first-line treatment option in patients with large lumen obstructing pancreatic duct (PD) stones. In patients with CP and PD dilatation, digital single-operator pancreatoscopy (DSOP)-guided lithotripsy seems to be an appealing option to ESWL and surgery. DSOP-guided lithotripsy for the treatment of large symptomatic PD-stones has been demonstrated to be safe, technically, and clinically effective, and should be regarded as an alternative endoscopic treatment of certain patients.

Postendoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Pancreatitis Pathophysiology and Prevention

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is an essential procedure for the management of pancreato-biliary disorders. Pancreatitis remains the most frequent complication of the ERCP procedure, and it is, therefore, necessary to recognize the pathophysiology and risk factors contributing to the development of pancreatitis and understand the methods to prevent this complication.

Safety and feasibility of opening window fistulotomy as a new precutting technique for primary biliary access in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis (PEP) is the most common and serious complication of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. To prevent this event, a unique precutting method, termed opening window fistulotomy, was performed in patients with a large infundibulum as the primary procedure for biliary cannulation, whereby a suprapapillary laid-down H-shaped incision was made without touching the orifice. This study aimed to assess the safety and feasibility of this novel technique.

METHODS

One hundred and ten patients were prospectively enrolled in this study. Patients with a papillary roof size ≥10 mm underwent opening window fistulotomy for primary biliary access. In addition, the incidence of complications and success rate of biliary cannulation were evaluated.

RESULTS

The median size of the papillary roof was 6 mm (range, 3-20 mm). Opening window fistulotomy was performed in 30 patients (27.3%), none of whom displayed PEP. Duodenal perforation was recorded in one patient (3.3%), which was resolved by conservative treatment. The cannulation rate was high (96.7%, 29/30 patients). The median duration of biliary access was 8 minutes (range, 3-15 minutes).

CONCLUSION

Opening window fistulotomy demonstrated its feasibility for primary biliary access by achieving great safety with no PEP complications and a high success rate for biliary cannulation.

Predictive factors of postendoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis for biliary complications in living-donor liver transplantation recipients

OBJECTIVES

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has shown great safety and efficacy in the management of post-living-donor liver transplantation (LDLT) biliary complications. Pancreatitis is the most commonest and the most feared complication after ERCP.

METHODS

We reviewed the data of liver transplant recipients who underwent ERCP for biliary complications after LDLT between 2011 and 2022.

RESULTS

In total 63 patients underwent ERCP after LDLT. They were targeted to 134 set of ERCP. Pancreatitis occurred in 52 sets (38.8%). We subclassified the patients into two groups, without pancreatitis: 31 patients (49.2%) and with pancreatitis 32 patients (50.8%). A higher incidence of pancreatitis was noticed with the first ERCP set (P = 0.04). Biliary strictures were more noted in the pancreatitis group (P = 0.025). Difficult cannulation requiring precut was more observed in the pancreatitis group (P = 0.007). Also, more frequent sphincterotomy was observed in the pancreatitis group (P = 0.003). Longer hospital stay, more fever, abdominal pain and vomiting were noted in the pancreatitis group (P = 0.001). Higher post-ERCP serum amylase (P = 0.001) and creatinine (P = 0.021), while lower serum calcium (P = 0.21) were noticed in the pancreatitis group. On multivariate analysis, preoperative diabetes, number of biliary anastomoses (single/multiple) and difficult cannulation requiring precut were significant predictors of post-ERCP pancreatitis.

CONCLUSION

Patient-related risk factors and bedside procedure-related risk factors play an essential role in the development of pancreatitis after ERCP for LDLT recipients. Endoscopists should be mindful by those high-risk patients during ERCP to apply appropriate techniques to prevent the development of this serious complication.

Management of Pancreatic Calculi in Chronic Pancreatitis: A Review Article

Chronic pancreatitis is a slow, irreversible, and progressive inflammatory condition with abdominal pain, loss of parenchyma, fibrosis, and calculus formation. It also causes loss of exocrine and endocrine function. Gallstones and alcohol is the most frequent cause of chronic pancreatitis. It is also caused by other factors, including oxidative stress, fibrosis, and repeated incidence of acute pancreatitis. Chronic pancreatitis is followed by several sequelae, one of them being formation of calculi in the pancreas. The formation of calculi can occur in the main pancreatic duct, branches of the duct, and parenchyma. The cardinal sign of chronic pancreatitis is pain caused by obstruction of pancreatic ducts and its branches leading to ductal hypertension resulting in pain. The main aim of endotherapy includes pancreatic duct decompression. The management options vary based on the type and size of the calculus. The treatment of choice for small-sized pancreatic calculi is endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) followed by sphincterotomy and extraction. The large-sized calculi need fragmentation before extraction, which is done by extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). Surgery can be an option for patients having severe pancreatic calculi if endoscopic therapy fails. For diagnostic purposes, imaging plays a very important role. The treatment options remain complex if the radiological and laboratory findings overlap. Due to advancements in diagnostic imaging, treatment options have become precise and helpful. It can significantly lower the quality of life along with immediate and long-term problems that pose a serious risk to life. This review comprises the various management options available for removing calculi following chronic pancreatitis, including surgical, endoscopic, and medical therapy.

[Modern minimally invasive technologies for the treatment of cholelithiasis]

Surgical community has not yet reached any consensus on the adequate treatment of gallstone disease with combined stones of the gallbladder and bile ducts. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic papillosphincterotomy (EPST) followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LCE) have been considered the optimal treatment method for the past thirty years. Thanks to improvement of technologies and experience in laparoscopic surgery, many centers in the world offer simultaneous treatment of cholecystocholedocholithiasis, i.e. LCE and laparoscopic choledocholithotomy. Transcystical and transcholedochal extraction of calculi from the common bile duct is the most common. Intraoperative cholangiography and choledochoscopy are used to assess extraction of calculi while T-shaped drainage, biliary stent and primary suture of common bile duct are used to complete choledocholithotomy. Laparoscopic choledocholithotomy is associated with certain difficulties, requires some experience in choledochoscopy and intracorporeal suturing of common bile duct. There are many unresolved issues regarding the choice of laparoscopic choledocholithotomy technique depending on the number and dimensions of stones, diameter of cystic duct and common bile duct. The authors analyze literature data on the role of modern minimally invasive interventions in the treatment of gallstone disease.

Risk factors for ERCP-related complications and what is the specific role of ASGE grading system

Background

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is one of the main therapeutic and sometimes diagnostic methods in biliary and pancreatic diseases. A grading system for the difficulty of ERCP (grade one to four, the higher grade represents the more complexity of the procedure) has been developed by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE). This study aimed to assess the prevalence of ERCP-related complications, their common risk factors, and specifically the role of difficulty of the procedure based on ASGE grading.

Material and Methods

This cross-sectional study was performed on 620 ERCP-operated patients over 4 years in two tertiary referral centers affiliated with Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. Data about the difficulty of procedures based on the ASGE grading scale, complications including pancreatitis, bleeding, infection, perforation, arrhythmia, respiratory suppression, aspiration, and major common risk factors were collected.

Results

The overall prevalence of complications was 11.6% including pancreatitis 8.2%, perforation 0.8%, gastrointestinal bleeding 1.3%, cholangitis 2.4%, and cardiopulmonary problems 0.5% (arrhythmia 0.3% and respiratory depression 0.2%). Patients with pancreatic contrast injection (66.7% vs. 11.3% P = 0.04) and sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (SOD) (44.4% vs. 11.1%; P = 0.01) showed a statistically significant higher overall complication rate. The association of these risk factors remained significant in multivariable logistic regression analysis. Patients with pancreatic contrast injection also showed a statistically significant higher prevalence of post-ERCP pancreatitis (66.7% vs. 11.3% P = 0.04). Furthermore, a significantly higher prevalence of arrhythmia (3.6% vs. 0; P = 0.008) was observed among patients with difficult cannulation. Based on the ASGE difficulty grading score, most of the patients were classified as grade 2 (74.2%) and 3 and 4 (23.4%). No statistically significant difference was noted between the difficulty-based groups in terms of complications.

Conclusion

The current study showed that the most critical risk factors of ERCP-induced complications were pancreatic contrast injection and SOD. ASGE grading scale for ERCP complexity did not predict the occurrence of complications in our study population.

Clinical benefit of early precut sphincintroterotomy for difficult biliary cannulation during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

OBJECTIVES

A precut procedure is sometimes required for difficult biliary cannulation during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). However, it is unclear whether the biliary access rate has improved for early precut procedures compared to conventional techniques. This study aimed to identify the benefit of early precut sphincterotomy in cases showing difficult biliary access.

METHODS

Between April 2017 and August 2021, consecutive patients who underwent precutting for difficult biliary cannulation were retrospectively enrolled. The outcomes of early (≤ 10 min from start of cannulation) and delayed (> 10 min) precut groups were evaluated. All adverse events were defined according to Cotton criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 70 patients were enrolled in this study. The biliary cannulation rate for a first ERCP was significantly higher in the early compared to delayed precut group (95% vs. 73.3%; P = 0.015). A difference in overall cannulation rate between the two groups was not observed (97.5% vs. 83.3%; P > 0.05). Significantly higher rates of prophylactic pancreatic stents were described in the delayed compared to early precut group (36.7% vs. 12.5%; P = 0.009). Significant differences in the frequency of pancreatitis, bleeding, penetration, and perforation were not noted between the two groups. Overall, the success rate was statistically significant between the experienced and less experienced endoscopists (87.2% vs. 63.9%; P = 0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

Early precutting within 10 min from the start of cannulation in ERCP is safe and effective in cases with a difficult biliary cannulation, and can improve the biliary cannulation rate.

A comparison of two types of contrast media used in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP) is one of the most serious complications of ERCP. Various procedures can reduce the incidence of PEP, such as wire-guided cannulation, prophylactic pancreatic stent placement, and pretreatment anal insertion of NSAIDs. Recently, iso-osmolar contrast media (IOCM) have been used for ERCP in several hospitals to reduce the risk of PEP in Japan. However, the effect of IOCM is uncertain because few reports have examined IOCM in relation to PEP.

AIM

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between contrast media used and the incidence of PEP.

METHODS

This retrospective study included all qualifying patients who had undergone ERCP at Hamamatsu University Hospital between January 2012 and January 2020. This study examined whether there was a difference in the onset of PEP between patients administered IOCM and high osmolar contrast medium (HOCM). Propensity score matching was used to analyze patient characteristics and ERCP procedures. Amidotrizoic acid was used as HOCM and iodixanol as IOCM.

RESULTS

ERCP was performed on 458 patients, and 830 procedures were conducted. After propensity score matching, 162 patients from the amidotrizoic acid group and 162 patients from the iodixanol group were selected. The incidence of PEP was 10.5% (17) in the amidotrizoic acid group and 9.3% (15) in the iodixanol group (P = 0.71). Changes in serum amylase levels post- and pre-ERCP were 240.6 ± 573.8 U/L and 142.7 ± 382.1 U/L in the amidotrizoic acid and iodixanol groups, respectively (P = 0.072).

CONCLUSION

Iodixanol had no prophylactic effect on PEP and clinical outcomes.

Intense FDG Uptake in the Common Bile Duct Post-ERCP Mimics Acute Infectious Cholangitis

In patients with obstructive pancreatitis due to choledocholithiasis, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is the standard of care. ERCP-induced inflammation or infection of the common bile duct (i.e., cholangitis) is a rare complication with a high mortality rate in severe cases. We report an unusual case of incidental findings of intense FDG uptake in the common bile duct one month post-ERCP without clinical features of acute cholangitis, indicative of inflammation of CBD associated with or exaggerated by ERCP.

Infectious complications of non-surgical biliary tract manipulation in paediatric patients. Role of antibiotic prophylaxis

BACKGROUND

Infections related to non-surgical manipulation of the biliary tract (NSMBT) are common events despite periprocedural antibiotic prophylaxis (PAP). Since June 2017, our local protocol has indicated a 24-h regimen of intravenous piperacillin-tazobactam for this purpose.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to describe the incidence and characteristics of NSMBT-related paediatric infections, define risk factors for their development, and analyse adherence to our PAP protocol.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Epidemiological, clinical, and microbiological data were collected in consecutive NSMBT procedures performed in paediatric patients (<18 years) in our centre (2010-2019).

RESULTS

113 procedures in 37 patients, median age 4 years (IQR 1-8), were included. Main underlying diseases were biliary atresia (32%) and cancer (14%). Sixty-eight percent had undergone liver transplant and 70% hepaticojejunostomy. In 44 procedures (39%), the intervention was performed during the course of infection and previously prescribed antibiotic treatment was maintained. In the other 69, PAP was specifically indicated for NSMBT; antibiotic adequacy increased from 35% to 100% after June 2017. In total, 32 NSMBT-related infections (28%) occurred, mainly in the first 24h post-procedure (72%); no deaths happened. Causative pathogens were Gram-negative rods (64%), Gram-positive cocci (28%), and Candida spp. (8%). Main related risk factors were hepaticojejunostomy, biliary obstruction, and liver transplant.

CONCLUSIONS

NSMBT in children entails a significant infection risk, even under antibiotic prophylaxis, being hepaticojejunostomy the main risk factor. Infectious complications mainly occurred immediately after the procedure. After establishing a PAP protocol, 100% of interventions received appropriate prophylaxis, decreasing antibiotic exposure time and potentially, the length of hospital stay.

Outcomes of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography in End-Stage Renal Disease Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis

Background/Aims: The adverse events associated with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) have not been sufficiently evaluated. This study aimed to review the morbidity and mortality associated with ERCP in ESRD patients on HD using a systematic review and pooled analysis. Methods: A systematic review and pooled analysis were conducted on studies that evaluated the clinical outcomes of ERCP in patients on HD. Random-effect model meta-analyses with subgroup analyses were conducted. The methodological quality of the included publications was evaluated using the risk of bias assessment tool for nonrandomized studies. The publication bias was assessed. Results: A total of 239 studies were identified, and 12 studies comprising 7921 HD patients were included in the analysis. The pooled estimated frequency of bleeding associated with ERCP in HD patients was 5.8% (460/7921). In the subgroup analysis of seven comparative studies, the ERCP-related bleeding rate was significantly higher in HD patients than in non-HD patients (5.5% (414/7544) vs. 1.5% (6734/456,833), OR 3.84; 95% CI 4.26−25.5; p < 0.001). The pooled frequency of post-ERCP pancreatitis was 8.3%. The pooled frequency of bowel perforation was 0.3%. The pooled estimated mortality associated with ERCP was 7.1% The publication bias was minimal. Conclusion: This pooled analysis showed that ERCP-related morbidity and mortality are higher in HD patients than in non-dialysis patients.

One hundred most cited articles related to Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: A bibliometric analysis

Background

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has developed over the past few decades into a reliable technology for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Through a bibliometric analysis, this research attempted to evaluate the characteristics of the top 100 articles on ERCP that had the most citations.

Methods

We extracted pertinent publications from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) on July 9, 2022. The top 100 ERCP articles with the most citations were identified and analyzed. The following data were extracted: publication year, country/region, organization, total citation times, annual citation times, research type and research field, etc. To implement the network’s visual analysis, a bibliographic coupling network based on keywords was built using the VOSviewer 1.6.17 program.

Results

The journal with the most publications were GASTROINTESTINAL ENDOSCOPY, with 45 articles. Most of the top 100 articles came from the United States (n = 47) and Italy (n = 14). Indiana University and the University of Amsterdam were among the most important institutions in ERCP research. ML Freeman of the University of Minnesota contributed the highest number (n = 9) and the most highly cited paper. The age of the paper and article type is closely related to citation frequency. Of the 100 most-cited articles, clinical application in the field of ERCP has focused on three aspects: diagnosis, treatment, and complications. Clinical use of ERCP has shifted from diagnosis to treatment. Post-ERCP pancreatitis is the focus of attention, and the clinical application of technically complex therapeutic ERCP is the future development trend.

Conclusion

This study lists the most influential articles in ERCP by exposing the current state of the field, and showing the evolution of research trends to provide perspective for the future development of ERCP.

The Usefulness of Peroral Cholangioscopy for Intrahepatic Stones

Peroral cholangioscopy (POCS) is believed to be effective in treating intrahepatic stones; however, reports on its efficacy are few. We reviewed the results of intrahepatic stones treated with fluoroscopic guidance or POCS. This study included 26 patients who underwent endoscopic treatment for intrahepatic stones at our institution between January 2017 and December 2021. We retrospectively evaluated the procedure time and adverse events in the first session and the rate of complete stone removal. Complete stone removal was achieved in 92% (24/26); POCS was required in 16 of 26 (62%) procedures and the complete stone removal was achieved in 15 of 16 (94%) of these procedures. The POCS group had a significantly longer procedure time than the fluoroscopy group. Cholangitis incidence was high; however, no difference was noted between patients with and without POCS, and all cases were mild and treated conservatively. Endoscopic treatment for intrahepatic stones may lead to an increase in the incidence of cholangitis, requires specialized devices such as a cholangioscope, and should be performed in an established institution by experienced staff. POCS is useful for intrahepatic stones formed upstream of the stenosis and intrahepatic stones piled in the bile duct.

Analysis of risk factors associated with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for patients with liver cirrhosis: a multicenter, retrospective, clinical study

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is the endoscopic modality of choice for the treatment of biliary and pancreatic diseases. However, patients with cirrhosis, particularly those with decompensated cirrhosis, are believed to be at increased risk for complications associated with ERCP. There is a paucity of literature describing the outcomes of ERCP for patients with cirrhosis. This study aimed to investigate the outcomes of ERCP for cirrhosis patients, especially adverse events, and evaluated its safety and efficacy.

METHODS

We performed a multicenter, retrospective study of all patients at Beijing Friendship Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Xijing Hospital affiliated to Air Force Military Medical University, Beijing Youan Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, and the Fifth Medical Center of the People's Liberation Army General Hospital from June 2003 to August 2019. The adverse events of inpatient ERCP for patients with ( n  = 182) and without liver cirrhosis (controls; n  = 385) were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 567 patients underwent ERCP between January 2003 and December 2019 were enrolled in this study. Compared to patients without cirrhosis, patients with cirrhosis were at higher risk for postoperative complications (odds ratio [OR], 4.172; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.232-7.031; P  < 0.001) such as postoperative pancreatitis (OR, 2.026; 95% CI, 1.002-4.378; P  = 0.001) and cholangitis (OR, 3.903; 95% CI, 1.001-10.038; P  = 0.036). The main indications for ERCP for patients with cirrhosis in this study included choledocholithiasis (101 cases; 55.5%), benign bile duct strictures (46 cases; 25.3%), and malignant bile duct strictures (28 cases; 15.4%). Among them, 23 patients (12.6%) underwent balloon dilation and 79 patients (43.4%) underwent sphincterotomy. Of the patients with cirrhosis, delayed bleeding occurred in ten patients (5.5%), postoperative pancreatitis occurred in 80 patients (44.0%), and postoperative cholangitis occurred in 25 patients (13.7%). An additional multivariate analysis showed that the total bilirubin (TBIL) level (OR, 4.58; 95% CI, 2.37-6.70) and Child-Pugh score of C (OR, 3.11; 95% CI, 1.04-5.37) were risk factors for postoperative complications in patients with cirrhosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with the general population of patients undergoing ERCP, patients with cirrhosis were more prone to postoperative pancreatitis and cholangitis. TBIL levels and Child-Pugh scores were risk factors for postoperative complications in patients with cirrhosis.

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.

Differential diagnostic value of periampullary mass: A nomogram established by random forest based on clinical characteristics and contrast-enhanced ultrasound

PURPOSES

To develop a nomogram model for distinguishing benign from malignant ampullary lesions more intuitive and accurate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 124 patients with periampullary lesions from January 2016 to June 2020 were enrolled in this retrospective study. Their clinical information, ultrasound (US), dual contrast-enhanced ultrasound (DCEUS) and MRI image features were used for research. Twenty features were collected in our study. Random forest was used to select the first five most important indicators to construct the prediction model.

RESULTS

Patients' age, common bile duct (CBD) diameter, the shape, vascularity, and boundary of lesion, lesion size with or without enlarged after CEUS, the enhancement patterns of arterial phase, the washout patterns of venous phase, CEUS diagnosis, and MRI diagnosis were statistically significant (p < 0.05). After screening for statistically significant indicators by random forest, the first five most important indicators were age, CBD diameter, the enhancement patterns of arterial phase, the washout patterns of venous phase, lesion size with or without enlarged after CEUS, which were used to construct nomogram. The area under curves (AUC) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for nomogram, MRI + MRCP + DCEUS, DCEUS, MRI + MRCP were 0.98(0.94-1.00), 0.91(0.84-0.97), 0.89(0.80-0.98), 0.68(0.60-0.77), respectively. The sensitivity and specificity were 100.00% and 84.62% for nomogram, 88.29% and 92.31% for MRI + MRCP+DCEUS, 86.49% and 92.31% for DCEUS, 51.35%, and 100.00% for MRI + MRCP.

CONCLUSIONS

We combined clinical indicators, gray-scale ultrasound characteristics, and CEUS characteristics to build the nomogram, which can be intuitively and accurately used for preoperative malignant prediction of ampullary lesion patients, worthy of clinical generalizability and application.

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.

Antiplatelet Monotherapy Is Associated with an Increased Risk of Bleeding After Endoscopic Sphincterotomy

BACKGROUND

Clinical guidelines recommend continuing antiplatelet monotherapy with aspirin and, in certain situations, other antiplatelet agents in patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with sphincterotomy.

AIMS

Given the scant evidence supporting this recommendation, our primary objective was to determine if the risk of post-sphincterotomy bleeding was increased in patients on antiplatelet monotherapy.

METHODS

We performed a systematic search of Cochrane Library, Ovid Embase, Ovid Medline, Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection databases. Inclusion criteria were adult patients undergoing ERCP and sphincterotomy on antiplatelet monotherapy with the comparator of no antithrombotic therapy. Our primary outcome was post-sphincterotomy bleeding. Methodological quality was assessed with the ROBINS-I tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Meta-analysis with random-effects model was performed.

RESULTS

The search identified 4676 unique citations, with six cohort studies meeting our inclusion criteria. Post-sphincterotomy bleeding was increased in patients on antiplatelet monotherapy: OR = 1.53 (95% CI 1.03-2.28) without substantial heterogeneity (I² = 0%). The number needed to harm (the number of patients who would have to receive antiplatelet monotherapy for one additional patient to have a post-sphincterotomy bleeding episode) was 185(95% CI 80-2272). All included studies had methodological shortcomings.

CONCLUSION

Antiplatelet monotherapy was associated with a modestly increased risk of post-sphincterotomy bleeding in our systematic review and meta-analysis. More high-quality studies are needed to improve certainty regarding the estimated effect size.

REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42020153019.

Impact of guidewire caliber on ERCP outcomes: Systematic review and meta-analysis comparing 0.025- and 0.035-inch guidewires

Background and study aims  The impact of guidewire caliber on endoscopic retrograde pancreatography (ERCP) outcomes are not clear. Recent studies have compared two guidewires, 0.035- and 0.025-inch, in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of available RCTs to assess if different caliber would change the outcomes in ERCP. Patients and methods  A systematic search of PubMed/Medline, Embase, Cochrane, SciELO, Global Index Medicus and Web of Science was undertaken through November 23, 2021 to identify relevant RCTs comparing the two guidewires. Binary variables were compared using random effects model and DerSimonian-Laird approach. For each outcome, risk-ratio (RR), 95 % confidence interval (CI), and P values were generated. P  < 0.05 was considered significant. Results  Three RCTs with 1079 patients (556 in the 0.035-inch group and 523 in the 0.025-inch group) were included. The primary biliary cannulation was similar in both groups (RR: 1.02, CI: 0.96-1.08, P  = 0.60). The overall rates of PEP were also similar between the two groups (RR: 1.15, CI: 0.73-1.81, P  = 0.56). Other outcomes (overall cannulation rate, cholangitis, perforation, bleeding, use of adjunct techniques) were also comparable. Conclusions  The results of our analysis did not demonstrate a clear benefit of using one guidewire over other. The endoscopist should consider using the guidewire based on his technical skills and convenience.

Increased severity of complications after therapeutic ERCP in geriatric patients with chronic pancreatitis: An observational study

Studies of therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in geriatric patients have mainly examined patients with biliary diseases, rather than chronic pancreatitis (CP). This study aimed to evaluate the safety and success rate of therapeutic ERCP in geriatric patients with CP. The medical records of patients with CP aged over 65 years (group A) were retrospectively collected in a tertiary hospital from January 2013 to December 2018. Sex-matched CP patients under 65 years (group B) were randomly selected into the control group (matching ratio = 1:2). The success rate and the complication rate of therapeutic ERCP in 2 groups were compared. The risk factors for post-ERCP pancreatitis were investigated by univariate and multivariate analyses. A total of 268 ERCPs were performed in 179 patients of group A and 612 ERCPs in 358 patients of group B. The success rate of ERCP in group A was similar to that of group B (92.16% vs 92.32%; P = .936). The overall incidence of post-ERCP complications was 7.09% (19/268) and 5.72% (35/612) in group A and B, respectively (P = .436). However, geriatric patients had a significantly increased occurrence of moderate to severe complications (2.61% vs 0.16%; P = .002). Female gender (odds ratio [OR] = 3.40; P = .046), pancreas divisum (OR = 7.15; P = .049), dorsal pancreatogram (OR = 7.40; P = .010), and lithotripsy (OR = 0.15; P = .016) were significantly associated with risk of post-ERCP pancreatitis in geriatric patients. Therapeutic ERCP is safe and feasible in elderly patients with CP. However, occurrence of moderate to severe complications after ERCP increased in geriatric patients.

Prevention and Management of Complications of Biliary Endoscopy

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is an essential procedure for the management of pancreaticobiliary disorders. ERCP is, however, associated with the risk of complications including pancreatitis, bleeding, perforation, infection, and instrument failure, which can often be fatal. It is, therefore, necessary to recognize the risk of ERCP-associated complications and understand the methods to prevent and treat such complications.

Rare post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography complications: Can we avoid them?

Regarded as a minimally invasive procedure, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is commonly used to manage various pancreaticobiliary disorders. The rate of complications is low and starts from 4% for diagnostic interventions. The group of most frequent negative outcomes is commonly known and includes pancreatitis, cholecystitis, and hemorrhage. Rare adverse effects occur occasionally but carry a significant risk of unexpected and potentially dangerous results. In some cases, including splenic injury, the knowledge of pre-existing conditions might be helpful in avoiding the unwanted outcome, while in others, the risk factors are not clearly defined. Such situations demand increased caution in the post-ERCP period. The appearance of abdominal pain, peritoneal symptoms, or instability of the patient’s hemodynamic condition should alert the physician and lead to further investigation of the possible causes. The diagnostic process usually involves imaging tests. The implementation of the appropriate treatment should be immediate, as many of the rare complications carry the risk of dangerous, even potentially lethal, results.

Adverse Event Fatalities Related to GI Endoscopy

BACKGROUND

Death after endoscopy is rare, under-reported, and has variable causes. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence and causes of fatal endoscopic adverse events (AEs) across two academic medical centers and to identify patient-, procedure-, and sedation-related risk factors.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study of fatal adverse events causally related to endoscopy at Denver Health Medical Center and the University of Colorado Hospital from 2011 to 2020. Fatal AEs were retrieved from the physician-reported database. Electronic medical records were then reviewed to determine medical history, procedure details, subsequent treatments, and time and cause of death.

RESULTS

From January 2011 to January 2020, 146,010 GI endoscopy procedures were performed. Median patient age was 70 [51-78] and 57% were male. Thirty-one deaths were identified, 28 of which were attributed to endoscopy, yielding a procedure-related fatality rate of 0.018%. Procedures included 11 EGDs, one colonoscopy, two flexible sigmoidoscopies, six ERCPs, seven upper EUS, and one PEG-J tube placement. Specific causes of death included aspiration in four patients (14%); cardiac arrest or myocardial infarction in seven patients (25%); perforation in nine patients (32%); bleeding in four patients (14%); cholangitis or sepsis without perforation in three patients (11%); and acute pancreatitis in one patient (3.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

Fatal endoscopic AEs were rare but tended to occur in older patients with major comorbidities. Most deaths occurred from aspiration pneumonia, cardiac arrest, or perforation-related sepsis within 1 week of the procedure.

Increased ERCP volume improves cholangiogram interpretation: a new performance measure for ERCP training?

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Cholangiogram interpretation is not used as a key performance indicator (KPI) of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) training, and national societies recommend different minimum numbers per annum to maintain competence. This study aimed to determine the relationship between correct ERCP cholangiogram interpretation and experience.

METHODS

One hundred fifty ERCPists were surveyed to appropriately interpret ERCP cholangiographic findings. There were three groups of 50 participants each: "Trainees," "Consultants group 1" (performed >75 ERCPs per year), and "Consultants group 2" (performed >100 ERCPs per year).

RESULTS

Trainees was inferior to Consultants groups 1 and 2 in identifying all findings except choledocholithiasis outside the intrahepatic duct on the initial or completion/occlusion cholangiogram. Consultants group 1 was inferior to Consultants group 2 in identifying Strasberg type A bile leaks (odds ratio [OR], 0.86; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.77-0.96), Strasberg type B (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.74-0.95), and Bismuth type 2 hilar strictures (OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.69-0.95).

CONCLUSION

This investigation supports the notion that cholangiogram interpretation improves with increased annual ERCP case volumes. Thus, a higher annual volume of procedures performed may improve the ability to correctly interpret particularly difficult findings. Cholangiogram interpretation, in addition to bile duct cannulation, could be considered as another KPI of ERCP training.

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.

Compliance to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography according to current guidelines and adverse outcomes of suspected choledocholithiasis in an acute care setting

INTRODUCTION

Common bile duct (CBD) stones are common among patients who underwent cholecystectomy. However, few studies have investigated the compliance with the guidelines for the prediction of choledochlithiasis (CL). Therefore, we aim to study the compliance with the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) guidelines for the identification of CL in a major hospital in Saudi Arabia's capital.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review on adult patients admitted to emergency department at King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh with gallstones between January 2016 and January 2019. Our data collection includes demographics and level of suspicion based on Transabdominal Ultrasound, liver function, amylase, and lipase tests. We then determined the likelihood of CL based on ASGE guidelines in order to assess the adherence to ASGE guidelines, the procedure's outcomes and adverse outcomes.

RESULTS

We identified 826 patients who met the study's criteria: 384 (46.4%) were compliant, while 442 (53.6%) were non-compliant with ASGE guidelines. There was a significant association between compliance and the presence of stones on ERCP in high likelihood patients. 48 (21.3%) of total ERCP procedures among all the likelihoods had adverse outcomes. 13 (40.6%) of non-compliant ERCP performed in intermediate likelihood have experienced adverse outcomes. There was a significant association between having adverse outcomes and being non-complaint with ASGE guidelines.

CONCLUSION

Despite ASGE guidelines' recommendations, a third of high likelihood cases and the majority of intermediate likelihood cases were non-compliant. Additionally, the current guidelines for the intermediate group are somewhat vague, giving ample leeway for patients to be placed in the intermediate group, which might subject them to unnecessary interventions. To conclude, there was a great lack of compliance with ASGE guidelines that is significantly associated with adverse outcomes. Hence, reassessing the current guidelines and monitoring healthcare facilities' compliance with the updated guidelines is highly recommended.

ERCP in critically ill patients is safe and does not increase mortality

ABSTRACT

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is the gold standard for minimally-invasive treatment of biliary or pancreatic tract disease. When treating patients on intensive care units (ICU) with ERCP, interventionalists are faced with considerably higher morbidity compared to patients in ambulatory settings. However, data on complications and outcome of critical ill patients undergoing emergency ERCP are limited.A retrospective analysis of 102 patients treated on ICUs undergoing 121 ERCP procedures at the University Hospital of Essen, Germany between 2002 and 2016 was performed. Indications, interventional success, outcome including survival and procedure-related complications were analyzed. Patients' condition pre-ERCP was categorized by using the "Simplified Acute Physiology Score" (SAPS 3).66/102 patients (64.7%) were referred to ERCP from surgical ICU, 36/102 (35.3%) from nonsurgical ICU. The majority of patients were male (63.7%), the mean age was 54.1 ± 14.9 [21-88] years. Indications for ERCP were biliary complications after liver transplantation (n = 34, 33.3%), biliary leakage after hepatobiliary surgery (n = 32, 31.4%), and cholangitis/biliary sepsis (n = 36; 35.3%), respectively. 117/121 (96.7%) ERCPs were successful, 1 patient (1.0%) died during ERCP. Post-ERCP pancreatitis occurred in 11.8% of interventions. The median simplified acute physiology score 3 was 65 points, predicting a risk-adjusted estimated mortality of 48.8%, corresponding to an observed mortality of 52.2% (P = n.s.).ERCP is safe in critically ill patients on ICU, it does not increase overall mortality rate and has a relatively low rate of procedure-associated complications.

Disease-Based Risk Stratification of Postendoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Pancreatitis for Common Bile Duct Stones

BACKGROUND

Risk stratification of postendoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP) for common bile duct (CBD) stones is needed for clinicians to adequately explain to patients regarding the risk of PEP in advance of ERCP and to proactively take preventive measures in high-risk patients.

AIMS

To stratify the risk of PEP for CBD stones based on CBD-related diseases.

METHODS

A total of 1551 patients with naïve papilla who underwent ERCP for CBD stones were divided into three groups: Group A: asymptomatic CBD stones, Group B: obstructive jaundice and elevated liver test values without cholangitis, and Group C: mild, moderate, and severe cholangitis. We stratified the risk of PEP by comparing its incidence among the three groups using the Holm's method. Furthermore, we performed one-to-one propensity score matching between Group A and the other groups to examine the risk of PEP in Group A.

RESULTS

The incidence rates in Groups A, B, and C were 13.7%, 7.3%, and 1.8%, respectively. The Holm-adjusted p values between Groups A and B, Groups A and C, and Groups B and C were 0.023, < 0.001, and < 0.001, respectively. Propensity score matching revealed that the incidence of PEP was significantly more in Group A than in the other groups (13.3% vs. 1.5%; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of PEP for CBD stones was stratified into low risk (Group C), intermediate risk (Group B), and high risk (Group A). This simple disease-based risk stratification may be useful to predict the risk of PEP in advance of ERCP.

A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis for Post-Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Pancreatitis Prophylaxis in the United States

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis (PEP) is the most common adverse event after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, and is responsible for substantial morbidity and health care expenditures of at least $200 million. Therapies for PEP prevention include pancreatic stent placement (PSP), rectal indomethacin, sublingual nitrates, and aggressive lactated Ringer's hydration. Our objective was to determine which PEP prophylactic strategies are cost effective.

METHODS

We developed 2 separate decision trees to evaluate PEP prophylactic strategies. The first, in high-risk patients, compared rectal indomethacin, PSP, PSP with indomethacin, sublingual nitrates, aggressive hydration with lactated Ringer's, and no prophylaxis. The second, in average-risk patients, compared rectal indomethacin, sublingual nitrates, aggressive hydration, and no prophylaxis. We used incidence rates, transition probabilities, and costs from publications and public data sources. Outcome measures were reported as incremental cost-effectiveness ratios, with a willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold of $100,000/quality-adjusted life years (QALYs).

RESULTS

Compared with no prophylaxis, all strategies were cost effective at a WTP of $100,000 in preventing PEP in high-risk patients. When directly compared with each other, rectal indomethacin was the cost-effective strategy in high-risk patients ($31,589/QALYs). In average-risk patients, indomethacin and sublingual nitrates were cost effective at a WTP of $100,000/QALYs compared with no prophylaxis. When directly compared with each other, rectal indomethacin was the cost-effective strategy ($53,016/QALYs).

CONCLUSIONS

Rectal indomethacin was the cost-effective strategy for preventing PEP in both average-risk and high-risk patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. All strategies were cost effective when compared with no prophylaxis in high-risk patients, whereas all strategies except for aggressive hydration with lactated Ringer's were cost effective in average-risk patients. Further studies are needed to improve the utilization of PEP prevention strategies.

Nafamostat Mesylate is Not Effective in Preventing Post-Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is associated with complications such as post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP). Protease inhibitors, including nafamostat mesylate (NM), have been evaluated for prophylaxis against PEP.

AIM

We describe the first multicenter randomized controlled trial assessing the prophylactic efficacy of NM against PEP.

METHODS

In this multicenter prospective study, we aimed to enroll 800 patients aged ≥ 20 years with a planned ERCP between December 2012 and March 2019. The primary outcome was the incidence and severity of PEP in patients who did not receive NM (non-NM) versus those who did (NM; 20 mg). Secondary outcomes included the incidence of PEP by NM initiation (pre- and post-ERCP), risk factors for PEP, and NM-related adverse events.

RESULTS

Only 441 of the planned 800 patients were enrolled (non-NM: n = 149; NM: n = 292 [pre-ERCP NM: n = 144; post-ERCP NM: n = 148]). Patient characteristics were balanced at baseline with no significant differences between groups. PEP occurred in 40/441 (9%) patients (non-NM: n = 15 [10%]; NM: n = 25 [9%]), including 17 (12%) and eight (8%) in the pre-ERCP and post-ERCP NM groups, respectively. In the NM group, the incidence of PEP was lower in the low-risk group than in the high-risk group. Pancreatic injection and double-guidewire technique were independent risk factors for PEP. NM-related adverse events of hyperkalemia occurred in two (0.7%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

We found no evidence for the prophylactic effect of NM against PEP, regardless of the timing of administration; however, further studies are needed.