Efficacy and safety of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for children with pancreaticobiliary diseases

Abstract

Objective To assess the safety and efficacy of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for children with pancreaticobiliary diseases. Methods Data of children under 14 years old who have underwent ERCP in Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital between September 2007 and August 2016 were reviewed for completion, complications and therapeutic methods. Results A total of 41 children underwent 68 ERCP, including 6(8.8%) diagnostic and 62(91.2%) therapeutic procedures. All procedures were performed under deep sedation. Cannulation failed in only 1 child with anomalous junction of pancreaticobiliary duct. The procedure success rate was 98.5%(67/68). There were 8 adverse events, including 7 mild post-ERCP pancreatitis and 1 fever. Incidence of adverse event was 11.8%(8/68). There was no such severe adverse event as bleeding, perforation, death, or other anesthesia related adverse event. Thirty-two children (78.0%) had follow-up, ranging from 2 month to 6 years. Children followed lived well with no long-term adverse event. Conclusion ERCP is an effective and safe procedure for the diagnosis and treatment of pancreaticobiliary diseases in children. Key words: Child; Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography; Diagnosis; Therapeutic endoscopy; Pancreaticobiliary diseases