Can Early 'Shallow' Needle-knife Papillotomy be the First Choice in ERCP?

Abstract

Needle-knife sphincterotomy, known as 'precut' is recommended as the second option in the case of difficult cannulation due to its potential higher complication (bleeding and perforation) rates. The aim of this study was to present our experience on early shallow needle-knife papillotomy (eSNKP) as the first-line choice independently of standard technique with or without difficult cannulation. A total of 70 patients underwent therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. A standard eSNKP and guidewire cannulation technique was routinely preferred as a first-line intervention. Deep biliary cannulation rate and timing were recorded, as well as intraoperative and postoperative complication rates. Successful deep biliary cannulation was performed in 66 (94.3%) patients during the first procedure. In 4 patients (5.7%), the procedure was terminated due to failed cannulation and repeated successfully after 72 hours. Minor complications were observed in 3 (4.3%) patients. No mortality was seen. eSNKP is a safe, time-saving, and effective technique as the first-line of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for common bile duct cannulation.