Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Performance Research Articles

Development of an Automated Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Quality Report Card Using an Integrated Analytics Suite

BACKGROUND AND AIMSQuality indicators (QIs) are essential for evaluating the safety and effectiveness of endoscopy but are difficult to measure accurately for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). We developed a fully automated, real-time endoscopy analytics tool using Health Level-7 (HL-7) standards that collects ERCP QIs from an endoscopy reporting system to generate an ERCP quality report card in a third-party analytics suite. METHODSERCP report data was collected between June 2021 and December 2022 from 4 referral centers. Discrete data elements from endoscopy reports generated in the EndoPro® reporting platform were imported into the Qlik® analytics suite and QI data were aggregated into a report card. The collected data were manually validated to confirm accuracy. RESULTSPooled data were successfully used to generate a comprehensive institutional ERCP quality report card comprising a total of 2146 ERCPs performed by 12 endoscopists. Manual review confirmed high accuracy (96.5% - 100%) of automatic extraction of ERCP QIs from endoscopy reports. Multiple procedural data elements were successfully extracted including cannulation difficulty, success rate, and administration of post-ERCP pancreatitis prophylaxis for procedures with biliary and pancreatic indication. Generation of the report card required minimal additional work on the part of the performing endoscopist and was updated in real-time. CONCLUSIONWe developed an automated ERCP analytics tool that accurately and automatically extracts QI data into a succinct ERCP quality report card without the need for manual data extraction or natural language processing. The use of the HL-7 standard provides a framework for the creation of similar tools in other electronic health records (EHRs). This tool allows for accurate ERCP quality and performance data evaluation at individual and institutional levels.

Limited exposure to pancreatic ERCP during advanced endoscopy training impacts competence and performance in independent practice

Background/ObjectivesThe impact of competency-based training programs on pancreatic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) performance remains unclear. This study aimed to describe the learning curves of pancreatic ERCP and subsequent performance during independent practice. MethodsThis was a multicenter prospective cohort study involving advanced endoscopy trainees (AETs). In the 1st phase, trainees were assessed on every 5th ERCP using the ERCP and EUS Skills Assessment Tool (TEESAT). Cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis of pancreatic ERCP evaluations was used to establish learning curves. During the 2nd phase (1st year of independent practice), now-graduated participants documented their performance on key ERCP quality indicators. ResultsA total of 24 AETs (20 training programs) received sufficient evaluations for CUSUM analysis. Pancreatic ERCP accounted for 14.6 % (196/1339) of all ERCPs evaluated with 45 % of pancreatic ERCPs carrying a Grade 3 level of complexity. A minority of AETs (16.7 %) performed enough pancreatic ERCPs to generate meaningful learning curves with no AETs achieving competence in pancreatic cannulation, sphincterotomy, or stone clearance during Phase 1. In Phase 2, a total of 3620 ERCPs were performed, of which 281 (7.8 %) were pancreatic ERCPs. While the overall pancreatic duct cannulation rate was 92.2 %, the native papilla pancreatic duct cannulation rate was 85.7 %, which was below the recommended 90 % threshold. ConclusionsAdvanced endoscopy training offers a low level of exposure to pancreatic ERCP, which is mirrored in independent practice, highlighting the inadequate training in pancreatic ERCP. Given the complexity of pancreatic ERCP, novel strategies are warranted to improve training in pancreatic ERCP.

Invalidity of Tokyo guidelines in acute biliary pancreatitis: Amulticenter cohort analysis of 944 pancreatitis cases.

There is a noteworthy overlap between the clinical picture of biliary acute pancreatitis (AP) and the 2018 Tokyo guidelines currently used for the diagnosis of cholangitis (AC) and cholecystitis (CC). This can lead to significant antibiotic and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) overuse. We aimed to assess the on-admission prevalence of AC/CC according to the 2018 Tokyo guidelines (TG18) in a cohort of biliary AP patients, and its association with antibiotic use, ERCP and clinically relevant endpoints. We conducted a secondary analysis of the Hungarian Pancreatic Study Group's prospective multicenter registry of 2195 AP cases. We grouped and compared biliary cases (n=944) based on the on-admission fulfillment of definite AC/CC according to TG18. Aside from antibiotic use, we evaluated mortality, AC/CC/AP severity, ERCP performance and length of hospitalization. We also conducted a literature review discussing each criteria of the TG18 in the context of AP. 27.8% of biliary AP cases fulfilled TG18 for both AC and CC, 22.5% for CC only and 20.8% for AC only. Antibiotic use was high (77.4%). About 2/3 of the AC/CC cases were mild, around 10% severe. Mortality was below 1% in mild and moderate AC/CC patients, but considerably higher in severe cases (12.8% and 21.2% in AC and CC). ERCP was performed in 89.3% of AC cases, common bile duct stones were found in 41.1%. Around 70% of biliary AP patients fulfilled the TG18 for AC/CC, associated with a high rate of antibiotic use. Mortality in presumed mild or moderate AC/CC is low. Each of the laboratory and clinical criteria are commonly fulfilled in biliary AP, single imaging findings are also unspecific-AP specific diagnostic criteria are needed, as the prevalence of AC/CC are likely greatly overestimated. Randomized trials testing antibiotic use are also warranted.

Advanced skills for general surgeons and carving out a niche: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in regional Australia.

The provision of high-quality healthcare in rural Australian hospitals has necessitated general surgeons to take up the challenge and expand their expertise to advanced endoscopy techniques including endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). This study examines the utility of ERCP in a regional setting especially in decreasing patient transfers and associated costs while achieving exceptional safety by measuring key indicators of safety and efficacy. A single-centre retrospective cross-sectional cohort review in a rural Queensland hospital of patients who underwent ERCP (emergent and elective) from January 2019 until July 2022. Standardized international ERCP performance indicators were collected and compared to benchmark literature values including the rate of cannulation, stone extraction, successful stent placement, and post-ERCP pancreatitis. The majority of the ERCP performance indicator benchmarks were met. 100% of patients had an appropriate indication for the procedure and consent. 98.95% successful CBD cannulation with only 14.14% requiring multiple attempts. 92.22% successful stone retrieval with 100% stent placement, well above guideline targets. The post-procedural complication rate was 6.81% (2.09% pancreatitis; 1.05% pancreatitis; 1.05% duodenal perforation). Antibiotic prophylaxis adherence was identified to require improvement (12.57%). High-quality ERCP procedures can be performed in a regional hospital by general surgeons in a safe and cost-effective manner, significantly decreasing the costs associated with patient transfer. This study reflects strong evidence for consistently achieving international ERCP performance benchmarks and the provision of high-quality healthcare by a regional hospital and provides a strong argument for increasing access to ERCP in rural and remote hospitals.

Anatomical endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography simulator using moulded meshed silicone: A novel simulator pilot study.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP) has higher rates of morbidity and mortality compared to upper or lower gastrointestinal tract endoscopy. The availability of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography means ERCP is usually performed for therapeutic purposes. Simulation could provide an adjunct to patient-based training in ERCP however models to date have been unconvincing. This ERCP simulation model was constructed from moulded meshed silicone by co-designers: Jean Wong and Kai Cheng. The anatomical orientation was based on a combination of anatomical specimens, sectional atlases, and the clinical experience of expert endoscopists. From March to October 2022, we recruited 5 surgeons/gastroenterologists to the expert group and 14 medical students, junior doctors, or surgical/gastroenterological trainees to the novice group. Most experts either agreed or strongly agreed that the simulation anatomy appearance (100%), anatomical orientation (83%), tactile feedback (66%), traversal actions (67%), cannula positioning (66%) and papilla cannulation (67%) resembled the procedure in humans. Experts statistically significantly outperformed novices in obtaining a cannulating position (80% vs. 14%, P = 0.006) and successful papilla cannulation (80% vs. 7%, P = 0.0015) on their first attempt. The novice group had statistically significant improvements in time to obtaining a cannulating position (3.53 vs. 11.5 min, P = 0.006) and passing the duodenoscope to the papilla (2.55 vs. 4 passes, P = 0.009). The simulator showed statistically significant results in face, content, and construct validity. A follow-up validation study should recruit participants across multiple institutions. External validity could be assessed by comparing expert proceduralist simulator performance against clinical ERCP performance.

Validity evidence for observational ERCP competency assessment tools: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND : Assessment of competence in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is critical for supporting learning and documenting attainment of skill. Validity evidence supporting ERCP observational assessment tools has not been systematically evaluated. METHODS : We conducted a systematic search using electronic databases and hand-searching from inception until August 2021 for studies evaluating observational assessment tools of ERCP performance. We used a unified validity framework to characterize validity evidence from five sources: content, response process, internal structure, relations to other variables, and consequences. Each domain was assigned a score of 0-3 (maximum score 15). We assessed educational utility and methodological quality using the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education framework and the Medical Education Research Quality Instrument, respectively. RESULTS : From 2769 records, we included 17 studies evaluating 7 assessment tools. Five tools were studied for clinical ERCP, one for simulated ERCP, and one for simulated and clinical ERCP. Validity evidence scores ranged from 2 to 12. The Bethesda ERCP Skills Assessment Tool (BESAT), ERCP Direct Observation of Procedural Skills Tool (ERCP DOPS), and The Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) and ERCP Skills Assessment Tool (TEESAT) had the strongest validity evidence, with scores of 10, 12, and 11, respectively. Regarding educational utility, most tools were easy to use and interpret, and required minimal additional resources. Overall methodological quality (maximum score 13.5) was strong, with scores ranging from 10 to 12.5. CONCLUSIONS : The BESAT, ERCP DOPS, and TEESAT had strong validity evidence compared with other assessments. Integrating tools into training may help drive learners' development and support competency decision making.

A117 VALIDITY EVIDENCE FOR ENDOSCOPIC RETROGRADE CHOLANGIOPANCREATOGRAPHY COMPETENCY ASSESSMENT TOOLS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract Background Assessment of competence in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is essential to ensure trainees possess the skills needed for independent practice. Traditionally, ERCP training has used the apprenticeship model, whereby novices learn skills under the supervision of an expert. A growing focus on procedural quality, however, has supported the implementation of competency-based medical education models which require documentation of a trainee’s competence for independent practice. Observational assessment tools with strong evidence of validity are critical to this process. Validity evidence supporting ERCP observational assessment tools has not been systematically evaluated. Purpose To conduct a systematic review of ERCP assessment tools and identify tools with strong evidence of validity using a unified validity evidence framework Method We conducted a systematic search using electronic databases and hand-searching from inception until August 2021 for studies evaluating observational assessment tools of ERCP performance. We used a unified validity framework to characterize validity evidence from five sources: content, response process, internal structure, relations to other variables, and consequences. Each domain was assigned a score of 0-3 (maximum score 15). We assessed educational utility and methodological quality using the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education framework and the Medical Education Research Quality Instrument, respectively. Result(s) From 2769 records, we included 17 studies evaluating 7 assessment tools. Five tools were studied for clinical ERCP, one on simulated ERCP, and one on simulated and clinical ERCP. Validity evidence scores ranged from 2-12. The Bethesda ERCP Skills Assessment Tool (BESAT), ERCP Direct Observation of Procedural Skills Tool (ERCP DOPS), and The Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) and ERCP Skills Assessment Tool (TEESAT) had the strongest validity evidence with scores of 10, 12, and 11, respectively. Regarding educational utility, most tools were easy to use and interpret, and required minimal additional resources. Overall methodological quality was strong, with scores ranging from 10-12.5 (maximum 13.5). Conclusion(s) The BESAT, ERCP DOPS, and TEESAT have strong validity evidence compared to other assessments. Integrating tools into training may help drive learners’ development and support competency decision-making. Please acknowledge all funding agencies by checking the applicable boxes below CAG Disclosure of Interest None Declared

S110 Racial Differences in the Performance of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in Acute Cholangitis: A Nationwide Time Trend Analysis, 2008-2018

Introduction: Black race was shown to have high mortality from acute cholangitis (AC) previously (1998-2009) and to undergo less endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) (2009-2012). We conducted a longitudinal racial breakdown of ERCP performed in AC in the USA over 11 years (2008-2018). Methods: This is a retrospective longitudinal trend analysis using National Inpatient Sample. Adult patients (≥18 years old) with AC were identified. Multivariate linear or logistic regression was performed when appropriate. To control for the severity of AC, we also included severe sepsis, septic shock, systemic inflammatory response syndrome with acute organ dysfunction, acute renal failure, acute respiratory failure, thrombocytopenia, altered mental status, and abnormal coagulation in the regression model. Stata (v.14.2) was used to perform analyses considering a 2-sided P-value< 0.05 as statistically significant. Results: A total of 312,849 patients with AC were included in the analysis. Before 2015, the longitudinal trend for the overall total and early ERCPs performed in Whites and Hispanics was increasing (P< 0.01) (Table). The trend was stable in Asians but in Blacks, even though the trend for early ERCP was increasing (P< 0.01) but the overall ERCPs performed for AC remained the same (P=0.07). After 2015, the trends for both early and total ERCPs remained stable for all races (P >0.05). However, upon examining the proportion of early ERCPs among total ERCPs performed, Blacks represented the racial category with the lowest numbers (Figure). Even though the trend of proportions for all racial categories was increasing (P< 0.01) however, the rate of increase was lowest for Blacks (per year increase for Whites was 1.37%, Blacks 1.18%, Hispanics 1.47%, and 1.37 for Asians). Racial mortality comparison showed that compared to Whites, Blacks had the highest odds of mortality (for Blacks, adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.86, P< 0.01, Hispanics aOR 1.29, P< 0.01, Asians aOR 1.30, P=0.01). Conclusion: The modification in International Classification of Diseases (ICD) coding in 2015 resulted in an apparent sharp change in the proportion of ERCPs performed due to coding change. Even though the trend for the performance of early ERCP for AC is on the rise in all races, there still exists a racial disparity in the use of early ERCP. The black population was at risk of receiving lower rates of early ERCP (calculated as a fraction of total ERCP), which may impart higher mortality.Figure 1.: Trend for the proportion of early ERCP comparing to total ERCP (ERCP: endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, AC: acute cholangitis, %: percentage, ICD: International Classification of Diseases) Table 1. - Trends for early and total ERCP performance in acute cholangitis Year 2008 2010 2012 2014 P value a,b 2016 2018 P value a,b White Total ERCP, % 47.58 48.75 50.21 50.55 < 0.01 33.42 32.55 0.37 Early ERCP, % 24.43 25.60 28.38 29.01 < 0.01 18.89 18.90 0.99 Black Total ERCP, % 41.20 39.75 43.59 43.45 0.07 30.97 30.21 0.72 Early ERCP, % 17.34 18.09 22.58 21.93 < 0.01 13.96 14.72 0.66 Hispanic Total ERCP, % 53.87 53.85 56.36 58.14 < 0.01 35.61 35.51 0.96 Early ERCP, % 28.70 27.64 31.94 34.36 < 0.01 17.64 20.28 0.13 Asians Total ERCP, % 54.34 52.86 55.28 53.04 0.84 35.08 37.58 0.39 Early ERCP, % 31.69 27.32 33.45 33.18 0.31 17.16 22.33 0.27 ERCP: endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography.aLinear P trend values.bTime-interrupted trends (before and after 2015) were obtained due to International Classification of Diseases (ICD) coding change from ICD-9 to ICD-10 in 2015.

Success Rate of Wire Control-Assisted ERCP Sphincterotomy Versus Non-assisted ERCP Cannulation of Common Bile Duct in a Secondary Care Unit During the First COVID-19 Peak: A Retrospective Observational Study of 281 Patients

BackgroundThe British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) recommended that during the COVID-19 pandemic, endoscopy units perform endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for obstructive biliary pathologies in an emergency. We assessed the local performance of ERCP during the first wave of COVID-19 at our local endoscopy center, in particular the technique to common bile duct (CBD) cannulation.MethodologyAll ERCP procedures performed from January to June 2020 were retrospectively assessed and compared with procedures performed between January and June 2019 at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary. The indications for ERCP, success rate, and complications were studied separately. Correlation analysis was conducted using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. The binary logistic regression model was used to compute the factors associated with successful ERCP. Significance was established when the two-sided P-value < 0.05. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 25 for Windows (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA, 2017).ResultsA total of 281 ERCP were included in this study, with 169 and 112 performed during the first six months of 2019 and 2020, respectively. A statistically significant (0.0087) higher proportion of cases with liver dysfunction presented for ERCP before the COVID-19 outbreak (152, 89.94%). All patients before COVID-19 underwent wire control-assisted ERCP, while 82 (73.21%) received assisted ERCP during the first wave (P < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference (P = 0.10) in the number of patients who underwent sphincterotomy before and during the first wave of COVID-19, with 97 (57.39%) and 76 (67.85%), respectively. The success rate of ERCP before COVID-19 was relatively high, accounting for 146 (86.39%) patients in contrast to 87 (77.67%) patients during the first wave (P = 0.074). Sphincterotomy (β = 2.800, P = 0.028) and stent insertion (β = 0.852, P = 0.046) were statistically significant predictors of ERCP outcomes. There was no statistically significant impact of cholangitis on the success of ERCP (β = 1.672, P = 0.109).ConclusionThe first wave of COVID-19 had a statistically proven negative impact on the expected standards of ERCP performance. Although the complication rate was significantly higher during the first wave case difficulty, the American Society of Anesthesia (ASA) status was not assessed on an individual basis. Both ASA status and case difficulty are now included in our endoscopy selection process. We recommend adding the complexity of cases and ASA to the local and national recording databases. This is a rare study on UK-based hospitals.

Implementation of mandatory ERCP registration in The Netherlands and compliance with European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy performance measures: a multicenter database study.

In 2018, the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) and United European Gastroenterology (UEG) published quality performance measures for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Since January 2016, all endoscopists in the Netherlands have been required to register all ERCP procedures in a nationwide quality registry. This study aimed to evaluate the procedural success rates of ERCP after the implementation of mandatory national registration and to compare these with the ESGE quality performance measures. This study was conducted with data from a multicenter endoscopy database. Data from 2019 and 2020 were analyzed. The primary outcome was ERCP procedural outcome. ESGE performance measures that could be evaluated were the percentage of successful bile duct cannulations in patients with virgin papillary anatomy; successful stent placement for a biliary obstruction located below the liver hilum; and complete removal of bile duct stones (< 10 mm). In total, 5295 ERCPs performed in 11 centers were included for analysis. The overall procedural success rate was 89.1 %. Successful biliary cannulation in patients with a virgin papilla was 90.3 % in nonacademic and 92.4 % in academic centers. The rates of successful stent placement in patients with a biliary obstruction located below the liver hilum were 97.0 % in nonacademic and 98.2 % in academic centers, and of successful bile duct stone extraction were 97.9 % in both nonacademic and academic centers. The quality of ERCPs performed met five of the six evaluated ESGE performance measures. The 95 % target for successful biliary cannulation in patients with virgin papillary anatomy in academic centers was not met. Mandatory registration provides valuable insight into ERCP performance rates.

What Would Be the Appropriate Number of Clinical ERCP Cases for Trainees to Acquire Basic Competence? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is technically demanding and carries significant risks. It is performed by gastrointestinal and surgical endoscopists. There is no consensus on the minimum number of ERCPs required during training. This study was conducted to analyze the minimum number of clinical ERCPs that a trainee needs to perform to achieve competency. PubMed, Ovid-Embase, and the Cochrane library were searched systematically for prospective and retrospective studies reporting on trainees' ERCP performance. Mete-analysis was conducted to analyze the success rate of cannulation, other basic techniques, and adverse event rate, using the random-effect model with Review Manager 5.3. Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria, with 149 trainees performing a total of 18 794 ERCP procedures. The pooled cannulation success rate was 85.7% (95% CI: 78.1%-91.0%) at completion of training. The cannulation success rate was 76.5% (95% CI: 69.2%-82.5%) when the trainees had completed 180 ERCPs, which increased to 81.8% (95% CI: 69.8%-90.6%) after 200 ERCP procedures. Adverse events and post-ERCP pancreatitis rates were 4.7% (95% CI: 2.9%-9.1%) and 2.0% (0.9%-3.9%), respectively. Achieving a cannulation success rate of >90% was considered a quality indicator for ERCP training by most societal guidelines. However, our retrospective analysis indicated that trainees only attained a pooled cannulation success rate of only 81.8% after 200 procedures. Therefore, the minimum number of ERCPs required to achieve competency during training may need to be redefined to meet the basic requirement.

Current ERCP practice in Belgium: the BSGIE survey.

Data on procedural outcome and quality of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in Belgian practice are scarce. The aim of this study is to assess current status of ERCP-performance in Belgium. National multi-institutional survey (online questionnaire) among members of the Belgian Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (BSGIE), conducted in the period June-August 2018. The RIZIV/INAMI provided real-life data on the total number of ERCPs performed in Belgium. Forty-five responders completed the survey (for 43 centers performing ERCP), providing information for 8368 ERCPs performed in 45% (43/95) of institutions performing ERCP in Belgium. Fifty-eight percent of centers performed > 100 ERCPs/year and 7% of centers (n=3) performed < 50 ERCPs/year. According to the RIZIV/INAMI data, low case-volume centers are underrepresented in this survey. The most common ERCPindication was stone extraction (52%). 74% of endoscopists had more than 10 years of experience in performing ERCP. The majority of centers had their own written protocol (84%) for microbiological duodenoscope surveillance. Monitoring of cannulation rate and post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) was only performed in a minority of centers (30%). The majority of centers (76%) provided verbal informed consent relating to the ERCP-procedure ; a minority also requested a written informed consent (23%). 65% of centers systematically use NSAIDs for PEP prophylaxis. This is the first survey of ERCP performance in Belgium. There were wide variations in practice. Adherence to key performance measures and measurement and evaluation of ERCP performance in daily practice at center and endoscopist level are not uniformly widespread.

Impact of supine versus prone position on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography performance: a retrospective study.

BackgroundEndoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is frequently performed in the prone or supine position. We compared the technical success and other outcomes between these positions.MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study using the Clinical Outcomes Research Initiative database. Demographics, procedure and fluoroscopy time, visualization of main structures, and technical success rates were compared between the supine and prone positions. Univariate and multivariate regressions were performed to adjust for age, sex, ethnicity and clinical setting.ResultsA total of 21,090 patients who underwent ERCP were included, of whom 1769 (8.4%) were supine and 19,321 (91.6%) were prone. The common bile duct (CBD) was visualized and cannulated in 89.1% of supine vs. 91.4% of prone positions (P=0.017), while the ampulla was visualized in 97.1% of supine vs. 97.7% of prone (P=0.414). The ERCP was incomplete in 10% of supine vs. 5% of prone cases (P<0.001). On multivariate analysis, supine position required shorter procedure times than prone (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.98, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.98-0.98; P<0.001). The supine position also yielded lower odds of CBD visualization and cannulation (aOR 0.63, 95%CI 0.44-0.91; P=0.011) and higher odds of an incomplete examination (aOR 1.84, 95%CI 1.46-2.30; P<0.001) vs. prone.ConclusionsThe supine position leads to shorter procedures but is more likely to result in poorer visualization and cannulation of the CBD and an incomplete examination. This may reflect the technical difficulty of performing ERCP in the supine position for the endoscopist. Our study supports recommendations for an individualized ERCP approach.

S0905 Prospective Multicenter International Trial Evaluating Performance of Disposable Elevator Cap Duodenoscope During Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (deCAP Trial)

INTRODUCTION: Persistent contamination of elevator mechanism despite reprocessing has resulted in outbreaks of infection with multidrug-resistant organisms following Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Novel duodenoscope with disposable elevator cap (DEC) might reduce these infections. We tested performance of DEC-duodenoscope in patients undergoing ERCP. METHODS: We conducted a prospective case-series study of outcomes of ERCP using DEC duodenoscope at two academic medical centers. Six endoscopists (experience 1 to 10+ years) and nurse/technicians participated in the study. Outcomes analyzed included evaluation of pre-procedure set up, post procedure reprocessing by nurse/technicians. ERCP outcomes included successful completion of ERCP, endoscopist rating on ERCP performance characteristics as well as ERCP maneuvers, and adverse events. RESULTS: This is an interim analysis of 108 consecutive ERCPs (Female 66%, 71/108) performed during the study period of May and June 2020. Most common indication was choledocholithiasis (60%, 65/108) and a majority of patients had native papilla (65%, 70/108). 32% of procedures were performed by fellows, while 68% of procedures were performed by attending physicians. Majority of ERCPs were of ASGE ERCP complexity Grade 2 (73%, 79/108). The mean cannulation time was 5.85 mins (SD: ± 7.97 mins) while the mean time to complete the procedure was 26 mins (SD: ± 17.66 mins). All ERCPs were performed under propofol guided deep sedation or general endotracheal anesthesia. All ERCPs were successfully completed without need to change scope . In one case, given inability to pass the instrument via the elevator channel, ERCP scope was removed, same cap was reattached, and then procedure could be successfully completed. Overall performance rating for DEC duodenoscope was 99%-100% in 17 ERCP performance characteristics and 100% in 10 ERCP maneuvers (Table 1). When evaluated by nurse or technician, overall performance rating of DEC duodenoscope was 97%-99% in various pre-procedure, intraprocedural and post-procedure tasks (Table 2). CONCLUSION: We conclude that most endoscopists with varying level of experience, could easily complete various complex ERCP tasks with DEC duodenoscope. This innovative design has the potential to reduce ERCP related infectious outbreak.Table 1.: Rating on ERCP Performance Characteristics and ERCP ManeuversTable 2.: Rating by nurse of technician for pre-procedure set up, intraprocedural performance and post-procedure reprocessing steps

A272 THE CANADIAN DIRECT OBSERVATION OF PROCEDURAL SKILLS (CANDOPS) TOOL FOR ENDOSCOPIC RETROGRADE CHOLANGIOPANCREATOGRAPHY: A MULTI-CENTRE PROSPECTIVE STUDY

Abstract Background Previous studies have demonstrated that many graduating trainees may not have all of the skills needed to independently practice endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) safely and effectively. As a part of competency-based learning curriculum development, it is essential to provide formative feedback to trainees and ensure they acquire the knowledge and skills for independent practice. Aims To assess the performance of advanced endoscopy trainees across Canada using the Canadian Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (CanDOPS) ERCP assessment tool. Procedural items evaluated include both technical (cannulation, sphincterotomy, stone extraction, tissue sampling, and stent placement) and non-technical (leadership, communication and teamwork, judgment and decision making) skills. Methods We conducted a prospective national multi-centre prospective study. Advanced endoscopy trainees with at least two years of gastroenterology training or five years of general surgery in North America and minimal experience performing ERCPs (less than 100 ERCP procedures) were invited to participate. The CanDOPS tool was used to measure every fifth ERCP performed by trainees over a 12-month fellowship training period. ERCPs were evaluated by experienced staff endoscopists at each study site under standard clinical protocol. Cumulative sum (CUSUM) analyses were used to generate learning curves. Results The data from five Canadian sites and 11 trainees participated in the study. A total of 261ERCP evaluations were completed. Median number of evaluations by site and trainee was 49 (IQR 31–76) and 15 (IQR 11–45). Median number of cases trainees performed prior to their ERCP training was 50 (IQR 25–400). There was a significant improvement in almost all scores over time, including selective cannulation, sphincterotomy, biliary stenting and all non-technical skills (P&amp;lt;0.01). CUSUM analyses using acceptable and unacceptable failure rates of 20% and 50% demonstrated trainees achieved competency for most measures in their final month of their training. Competency in tissue sampling was not achieved within a one-year training period. Conclusions This is the first ERCP performance evaluation tool that examines multiple technical and non-technical aspects of the procedure. Although trainee ERCP skills do improve during their training period, there exists a notable variability in time to competency for the different skills measured using the CanDOPS tool. Large prospective research is required to determine if competency is achieved using more stringent definitions of ERCP competency and to determine factors associated with reaching competency. Funding Agencies None

Prospective evaluation of ERCP performance in an Italian regional database study

BackgroundProspective studies about endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP) in a community setting are rare. AimTo assess success and complication rates of routinely-performed ERCP in a regional setting, and the priority quality indicators for ERCP practice. MethodsProspective region wide observational study on consecutive patients undergoing ERCP during a 6-month period. A centralized online ERCP questionnaire was built and used for data storage. Primary quality indicators provided by the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) were considered. Results38 endoscopists from 18 centers performed a total of 2388 ERCP. The most common indication for ERCP was choledocholitiasis (54.8%) followed by malignant jaundice (22.6%). Cannulation of the desired duct was obtained in 2293 cases (96%) and ERCP was successful in 2176 cases (91.1%). Success and ERCP difficulty were significantly related to the experience of the operator (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). ERCP difficulty was also significantly related to volume centers (p < 0.01). The overall complication rate was 8.4%: post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) occurred in 4.1% of procedures, bleeding in 2.9%, infection in 0.8%, perforation in 0.4%. Mortality rate was 0.4%. All the ASGE priority quality indicators for ERCP were confirmed. ConclusionsThe procedural questionnaire proved to be an important tool to assess and verify the quality of routinely-performed ERCP performance in a community setting.

Impact of Periampullary Diverticulum on ERCP Performance: A Matched Case-Control Study.

Background/AimsPeriampullary diverticulum (PAD) is frequently encountered during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and has been associated with stone formation in the bile duct. The effects of PAD on the ERCP procedure have been often debated. We aimed to compare the therapeutic success of ERCP between patients with PAD and matched controls. MethodsWe reviewed all ERCPs with findings of PAD in a national database (n=1,089) and compared them with age- and gendermatched controls in a 1:3 fashion (n=3,267). Demographics, endoscopic findings, visualization of main structures, and therapeutic success rates were compared between groups. Secondary analysis compared PAD cases and controls who had gallstone disease. ResultsThe average cohort age was 68.4±14.3 years and 55.1% were male. ERCP success was similar in both groups, and no significant inter-group differences were found in the multivariate analysis. The presence of PAD did not affect the rates of sphincterotomy or visualization of main biliary structures. Secondary analysis showed similar success rates for gallstone removal between patients with PAD and controls. ConclusionsPAD may not be considered a hinderance to ERCP success. Further research is needed to determine the best approach to cannulate the ampulla and provide endoscopic therapy for different subtypes of PAD.

Activities in a social networking-based discussion group by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography doctors.

Online social networking is increasingly being used among medical practitioners. However, few studies have evaluated its use in therapeutic endoscopy. Here, we aimed to analyze the shared topics and activities of a group of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) doctors in a social networking-based endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography discussion group (EDG). Six ERCP trainers working in Xijing Hospital and 48 graduated endoscopists who had finished ERCP training in the same hospital were invited to join in EDG. All group members were informed not to divulge any private information of patients when using EDG. The activities of group members on EDG were retrospectively extracted. The individual data of the graduated endoscopists were collected by a questionnaire. From June 2014 to May 2015, 6924 messages were posted on EDG, half of which were ERCP related. In total, 214 ERCP-related topics were shared, which could be categorized into three types: sharing experience/cases (52.3%), asking questions (38.3%), and sharing literatures/advances (9.3%). Among the 48 graduated endoscopists, 21 had a low case volume of less than 50 per year and 27 had a high volume case volume of 50 or more. High-volume graduated endoscopists posted more ERCP-related messages (P=0.008) and shared more discussion topics (P=0.003) compared with low-volume graduated endoscopists. A survey showed that EDG was useful for graduated endoscopists in ERCP performance and management of post-ERCP complications, etc. A wide range of ERCP-related topics were shared on the social networking-based EDG. The ERCP-related behaviors on EDG were more active in graduated endoscopists with an ERCP case volume of more than 50 per year.

24 Measuring the value of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) activity: an opportunity to stratify endoscopists based on their value

Background The value in healthcare can be defined as patient health outcomes achieved per monetary unit spent. Aim To characterise the value of ERCP performance of four gastroenterologists. Method Medical records of patients undergoing ERCP between September 2014 and September 2016 in an academic medical centre were reviewed; all procedures were performed by one of four experienced gastroenterologists, all of whom have performed at least 1000 ERCPs. Procedure value was defined as the quality of procedure (Q) divided by the duration of procedure (T) adjusted for complexity level (C), that is, Q/(T/C). In those patients undergoing multiple ERCPs during the study period, only the index procedure was considered for analysis. ERCP quality and complexity were both graded on a 1 to 4 Likert scale based on American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) criteria; time was recorded (in minutes) from intubation to extubation. Although individual components of procedure cost (eg, ERCP accessories, patient sedation, etc.) were not itemised, the procedure duration (ie, the cost of endoscopist’s time) was considered to be a reliable surrogate estimate of overall procedure cost. Results In total, index procedures on 465 patients were performed over 24 months; mean of 116 index ERCPs per endoscopist. Mean quality varied from 2.25 to 2.53 while adjusted mean duration (T/C) varied from 22.13 to 28.66 min per procedure. Value measurements varied from 8.1 to 10.7. Conclusions There was a 32% variation in the value of endoscopist activity. As healthcare costs are scrutinised more closely, such value measurements are likely to become more relevant.

Influencing factors for the performance of trainees after hands-on training of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

To evaluate the performance of trainees after finishing hands-on training of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) at our hospital. Questionnaire was distributed to 46 trainees of ERCP training over the past 5 years. And the effects of training duration, case volume and hospital facilities on ERCP performance were examined. A total of 41 valid questionnaires (89.1%) were retrieved. And 34 trainees (82.9%) worked at tertiary medical centers. The mean training duration was 8.9 months. Compared with trainees with less annual ERCP volume (TL) (< 4 cases per month, n = 23), trainees with more volume (TM) (≥ 4 cases per month, n = 18) had a higher rate of successful cannulation and precut by a needle knife (both P < 0.05). More endoscopists could perform ERCP and more duodenoscopes were stocked at hospitals of TM compared with TL (both P < 0.05). The results of trainee self-evaluation showed that the major influencing factors of post-training ERCP performance were hospital supports, handling capacity and case volume. After hands-on training, the trainee performance of ERCP is influenced by such multiple factors as handling capacity and hospital supports, etc.