WTP3.11 The impact of inpatient Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography on total length of hospital stay

Abstract

Abstract Aims Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is a frequently performed inpatient imaging modality to rule out bile duct stones (BDS). The aim of the study was to quantify the time delays from request of MRCP to its execution. Methods A retrospective cohort study of all consecutive adult inpatient MRCPs was conducted in a single centre from October 2021 to September 2022. Patient demographics, indications for MRCP, system timestamps for MRCP scans and length of stay (LOS) were analysed. Peak liver function test values were used pre-MRCP. Results A total of 302 patients were identified, 181 (59.9%) were female. Median age was 65 (IQR 50-76) and median Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation score was 5 (IQR 3-8). 59 (19.5 %) MRCPs were performed for jaundice and 55 (18.2 %) were for gallstone pancreatitis. 104 (34.3%) had proven bile duct stones (BDS). Ultrasound and/or CT evidence of dilated bile ducts was strongly correlated with positive MRCP findings (p<0.001). Patient age, gender, bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase levels were not predictive for BDS. 112 (37.1%) were urgent requests. The median wait time for urgent MRCP was 1.0 days (IQR 0.6- 1.8) compared to 1.2 days (IQR 0.9- 2.7) for routine requests. Median LOS was 5.9 days (IQR 3.6-10.9). Conclusion Inpatient MRCP does not significantly impact total LOS. We conclude that patients with high risk factors for BDS should undergo MRCP as inpatients to mitigate complications of BDS.