Successful Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Research Articles

A nomogram for prediction of ERCP success in patients with bile duct leaks: a multicenter study.

Bile duct leaks (BDLs) are serious complications that occurs after hepatobiliary surgery and trauma, leading to rapid clinical deterioration. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is the first-line treatment for BDLs, but it is not clear which patients will respond to this therapy and which patients will require additional surgical intervention. The aim of our study was to explore the predictors of successful ERCP for BDLs. A retrospective analysis was conducted using data from six centers' databases. All consecutive patients who were clinically confirmed as BDLs were included in the study. Collected data were demographics, disease severity, and ERCP procedure characteristics. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to select independent predictive factors that affect the outcome of ERCP for BDLs, and a nomogram was established. Calibration and ROC curves were used to evaluate the models. Four hundred and forty-eight consecutive patients were clinically confirmed as BDLs and 347 were excluded. In the 101 patients included patients, clinical success was achieved in 78 patients (77.2%). In logistic multivariable regression, two independent factors were negatively associated with the success of ERCP: SIRS (OR, 0.183; 95% CI 0.039-0.864; P = 0.032) and high-grade leak (OR 0.073; 95% CI 0.010-0.539; P = 0.010). Two independent factors were positively associated with the success of ERCP: leak-bridging drainage (OR 4.792; 95% CI 1.08-21.21; P = 0.039) and cystic duct leak (OR 6.193; 95% CI 1.03-37.17; P = 0.046). The prediction model with these four factors was evaluated using a receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve, which demonstrated an area under the curve of 0.9351. The calibration curve showed that the model had good predictive accuracy. Leak-bridging drainage and cystic duct leak are positive predictors for the success of ERCP, while SIRS and high-grade leak are negative predictors. This prediction model with nomogram has good predictive ability and practical clinical value, and may be helpful in clinical decision-making and prognostication.

A143 PATIENT POSITION AND ENDOSCOPIC CHOLANGIOPANCREATOGRAPHY (ERCP) TECHNICAL SUCCESS AMONG PATIENTS WITH SURGICALLY ALTERED FOREGUT ANATOMY: A RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS

Abstract Background Patients with surgically altered gastrointestinal anatomy undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pose challenges due to anatomical distortions. Factors such as patient positioning, endoscopist experience, and choice of endoscope may influence procedural success. It is unclear how these factors may impact the technical success of ERCP among patients with altered anatomy. Aims We primarily aimed to determine the impact of patient positioning (prone versus left lateral decubitus [LLD]) on technical success of ERCP among patients with surgically altered anatomy. Our secondary aim was to determine the impact of patient positioning on procedural time and immediate bleeding. Methods We conducted a retrospective single-centre study using data from 2010 to 2020 that included patients with hepaticojejunostomy, Roux-en-Y anastomosis, Billroth-1, or Billroth-2 anatomy. The primary outcome was technical success of the ERCP, which we comprehensively defined as of successful navigation to the papilla or surgical anastomosis, selective cannulation and cholangiography, and the realization of the intended therapeutic goals. The secondary outcomes were the presence of immediate bleeding and procedural time. Statistical analysis involved descriptive statistics using mean and standard deviation (SD) and Fisher exact test with relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). All statistical tests were two-tailed and considered significant at Pampersand:003C0.05. Results Among 205 patients, there were 179 (87.3%) in the LLD group, and 26 (12.6%) in the prone group. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of patient sex, age, type of altered anatomy, or American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA) classification. We found that there was no significant differences between the two groups in terms of procedural success (RR 1.1, 95% CI: 0.8-1.5), immediate bleeding (RR 1.7, 95% CI: 0.2-14.8), and procedural time (P=0.808). Conclusions We did not find that patient positioning had a significant impact on technical success in ERCP among patients with surgically altered anatomy. The choice of positioning should be tailored to individual patient and endoscopist factors, with a focus on optimizing outcomes in this complex patient subset. Funding Agencies None

Choledocholithiasis: A Review of Management and Outcomes in a Regional Setting.

Background Choledocholithiasis is a common surgical presentation with an incidence of 8% to 16% in symptomatic cholelithiasis. Treatment often requires a multi-stage approach via endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), which can prolong the length of stay (LoS) and expose patients to unnecessary risks. A single-stage procedure, such as LC with common bile duct exploration (CBDE), is a safe and effective option that may decrease LoS. This study compares patient outcomes and management in a regional center and aims to identify factors that predict the presence of confirmed choledocholithiasis. Methods A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was performed on all patients admitted to Toowoomba Hospital for management of diagnosed or suspected choledocholithiasis from January 2021 to March 2023. Patient demographics, ERCP findings, and operative data were collated. Results A total of 195 patients were identified, including 136 patients undergoing multi-stage management, 34 patients who had an ERCP alone, and 25 patients who underwent single-stage management. Single-stage procedures had an 80% success rate with an average LoS of 3.6 days. Multi-stage procedures had an average LoS of 8.1 days and an ERCP success rate of 93%. Complication rates between ERCP (11.7%) and LC with CBDE (9.7%) were comparable. Time to index ERCP and serum bilirubin level were found to be significantly lower in those with positive index ERCP findings compared to those without. Conclusion Single-stage procedures are a safe way to manage choledocholithiasis and are associated with a reduced LoS when compared to multi-stage management, with comparable efficacy and morbidity rates.

The impact of COVID-19 on hospitalizations that underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the United States.

COVID-19 impacts technical success of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). In this study, we aimed to assess the influence of COVID-19 on hospitalizations that underwent ERCP. We identified all adult COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 hospitalizations that underwent ERCP in the United States using the National Inpatient Sample for 2020. Hospitalization characteristics, clinical outcomes, and complications were compared between the two groups. In 2020, 2015 COVID-19 and 203,094 non-COVID-19 hospitalizations underwent ERCP. The COVID-19 cohort had a higher mean age (60.3 vs 55.6years, p < 0.001) and a higher proportion of Blacks and Hispanics compared to the non-COVID-19 cohort. After adjusting for confounders, the COVID-19 cohort had higher all-cause inpatient mortality (4.77 vs 1.45%, aOR 4.09, 95% CI 2.50-6.69, p < 0.001), mean length of stay (LOS) [10.19 vs 5.94days, mean difference: 3.88, 95% CI 2.68-5.07, p < 0.001] and mean total hospital charges (THC) [$152,933 vs $96,398, mean difference: 46,367, 95% CI 21,776-70,957, p < 0.001] compared to the non-COVID-19 cohort. Increasing age, higher Charlson Comorbidity Index, and post-ERCP pancreatitis were identified to be independent predictors of inpatient mortality for COVID-19 hospitalizations that underwent ERCP. Furthermore, the COVID-19 cohort had higher odds of developing post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) (11.55 vs 7.05%, aOR 1.64, 95% CI 1.19-2.25, p = 0.002) compared to the non-COVID-19 cohort, after adjusting for confounders. However, there was no statistical difference in the rates of bowel perforations and post-ERCP hemorrhage between the two groups. COVID-19 hospitalizations that underwent ERCP had higher inpatient mortality, mean LOS, mean THC, and odds of developing PEP compared to the non-COVID-19 cohort. This study is not a part of a clinical trial.

Predictors of success of conventional ERCP for bile duct stones and need for single-operator cholangioscopy.

Background and study aims The characteristics of difficult stones requiring cholangioscopy-assisted lithotripsy are poorly defined. We sought to determine clinician perception of these characteristics and decision-making in biliary endoscopy. Methods One hundred twenty-four delegates attending an online course were invited to assess 20 clinical stone cases. Each image was graded on a 4-point Likert for: grading of stone difficulty, confidence of clearance with conventional endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) methods, likelihood of needing cholangioscopy-assisted lithotripsy, and confidence of clearance with one session of lithotripsy. An independent reviewer rated each case on largest stone size, stone number, presence of stricture distal to stone, size of stone relative to distal duct size, and acute common bile duct (CBD) angulation < 135°. Multilevel (mixed) statistical methods with a two-level model were utilized with multilevel ordinal logistic regression. Results Stone size and location, stricture and stone diameter:duct ratio impacted perceived procedural difficulty P < 0.01). Stone:duct ratio (< 50% odds ratio [OR] 0.22, P < 0.001), stricture (OR 7.26, P < 0.001) and stone location impacted confidence of clearance with conventional ERCP. Intrahepatic and cystic duct stones were least likely to engender confidence ( P < 0.01). The same factors plus CBD angulation < 135° predicted cholangioscopy requirement ( P < 0.01). Stone number did not influence procedure difficulty or cholangioscopy requirement. Strictures (OR 0.29, P < 0.001) and location, especially intrahepatic (OR 0.42, P < 0.001) impaired confidence in clearance with one cholangioscopy session. Conclusions Ductal anatomy, the presence of a stricture distal to a stone, cystic and intrahepatic stones and stones larger than the distal duct are considered by endoscopists to be significant predictors of requiring cholangioscopy-assisted lithotripsy.

S3341 Successful Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Through Gastro-Gastric Fistula from Silastic Band Erosion in a Patient with Fobi-Pouch Gastric Bypass

S3341 Successful Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Through Gastro-Gastric Fistula from Silastic Band Erosion in a Patient with Fobi-Pouch Gastric Bypass

Outcome of the Endoscopic Biliary Stenting for Irretrievable Common Bile Duct Stones in an Academic Hospital – A Prospective Study

Background: Choledocholithiasis is characterized by the existence of a stone in the common bile duct. Based on findings published in the Medical Clinics of North America, around 10-15% of individuals with gallstones experience the development of choledocholithiasis. Presently, the established approach for addressing common bile duct stones involves the implementation of endoscopic papillotomy and stone extraction. The combined utilization of Dormia basket, balloon catheter, and lithotripsy achieves a success rate of approximately 90%. In cases where traditional endoscopic removal methods prove ineffective, biliary stenting plays a crucial role in the conservative management of CBD stones. Objectives: The main goal of the study was to evaluate the outcome of biliary stenting in irretrievable common bile duct stones. Materials and Methods: This observational study took place at the Department of Gastroenterology, Dhaka Medical College and Hospital, Dhaka, from January 2018 to December 2018. The study included consecutive patients who were 18 years or older and diagnosed with common bile duct stones. These patients underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for stone extraction. The study specifically focused on patients who received biliary stenting for irretrievable common bile duct stones, and they were enrolled as participants in the study. Results: Out of the 83 patients who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for stone extraction, 29 patients (35%) were deemed as having irretrievable stones, necessitating the implementation of stenting. Among these irretrievable stone cases, the average age was 46.69, and there was a predominance of females with 17 patients (58.6%). Of the 29 cases, 22 patients completed the follow-up. During the follow-up ERCP, a significant reduction was observed in both the average number of stones (3.14 vs. 1.9; P=0.002) and their size (16.32 vs. 12.4; P=0.005). Successful stone extraction was achieved in 14 patients (63.64%) during the second ERCP. In one patient (4.55%), spontaneous clearance of the stone occurred, while in 7 patients (31.81%), stone extraction was not possible during the second ERCP. The reduction in mean stone size was the only significant factor affecting the success of the second ERCP. However, there was no correlation found between the duration of stenting and the reduction in stone size (r=-0.193, p=0.401). Conclusion: Our study shows that repeat ERCP can successfully extract stones regardless of stenting duration. Unlike Western data, we emphasize the effectiveness of endoscopic biliary stenting in a context with limited access to advanced techniques, where initial stone extraction rates are lower. This approach is particularly beneficial for patients with stone sizes over 15 mm, avoiding the need for complex surgical procedures.

Impact of ERCP simulator training on early ERCP learning curves of novice trainees: a cohort study.

Background and study aim Simulator-based training has been extensively studied in training gastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy and shown to significantly improve learning curves of novices. Data on simulator-based training in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) are scarce. We aimed to determine the impact of 2-day intensive hands-on simulator training on the course of the learning curve of novice trainees. Methods We conducted a prospective cohort study using a validated mechanical ERCP simulator (Boškoski-Costamagna ERCP Trainer). Six trainees were allocated to the simulation course program (SG). Each of these trainees were paired with an endoscopy trainee starting regular ERCP training at the same center who had no exposure to a simulation course program (control group; CG). The course included lectures, live ERCP demonstrations, and hands-on ERCP training to educate trainees in basic techniques related to cannulation, stent placement, stone extraction and stricture management. After the course, both the SG and CG started formal ERCP training in their respective centers. The Rotterdam Assessment Form for ERCP was used to register each performed ERCP. Simple moving average was applied to create learning curves based on successful common bile duct (CBD) cannulation. Outcomes were plotted against a historical cohort (HC). Results Thirteen trainees were included, six trainees in the SG and seven trainees in the CG, with a total of 717 ERCPs. Mean successful ERCP cannulation rate was higher for the simulator group at baseline compared to both CG and HC, 64% versus 43% and 42%, respectively. Differences became less explicit after 40 ERCPs, but persisted until a median of 75 ERCPs. Conclusions We demonstrate that 2-day hands-on simulator-based ERCP training course has a positive effect on the learning curves of ERCP trainees and should be considered an integral part of the training curricula for ERCP to develop skills prior to patient-based training.

Blood and bile: A gastroduodenal artery pseudoaneurysm associated with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography stent migration

A man in his mid-forties presented with a two-day history of sudden onset right upper quadrant pain and coffee-ground vomiting. Eight months previously, he underwent successful endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with biliary stenting for cholangitis and severe gallstone pancreatitis. This was followed by a COVID-delayed uncomplicated laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Risk factors for post-endoscopic retrograde pancreatography pancreatitis in malignant extrahepatic biliary obstruction: a retrospective single-center study

Background. Decompression interventions under the endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is the method of choice in malignant extrahepatic biliary obstruction (MEHBO). Acute pancreatitis is the most common complication of ERCP. Many studies have been performed to identify the risk factors for post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP). However, these works in general include the analysis of ERCP in patients with various causes of biliary obstruction without subdividing patients with malignant obstruction.&#x0D; Purpose.The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for PEP in patients with MEHBO.&#x0D; Materials and Methods. A retrospective analysis of 100 cases of ERCP in MEHBO was done. PEP was in 2 patients, and 14 patients had hyperamylasemia (HA). The following factors were analyzed: gender, age, level of MEHBO, obstruction of the main pancreatic duct (MPD), total bilirubin level, history of endoscopic papillosphincterotomy (EPST), periampullary diverticulum, successful ERCP, primary selective biliary cannulation, catheterization and/or contrast injection into MPD, Precut EPST, successful decompression.&#x0D; Results and discussion. Univariate analysis showed that PEP is associated with an obstruction at the level of the proximal and middle third of the hepaticocholedochus (p = 0.004) and with absence of MPD obstruction (p = 0.022); female gender (p = 0.012), obstruction at the level of the proximal and middle third of the hepaticocholedochus (p &lt; 0.001), absence of MPD obstruction (p &lt; 0.001), catheterization and/or contrast injection into MPD (p = 0.040) are associated with PEP or hyperamylasemia (HA); female gender (p = 0.024), obstruction at the level of the proximal and middle third of the hepaticocholedochus (p &lt; 0.001), absence of MPD obstruction (p=0.006), catheterization and/or contrast injection into MPD (p = 0.035), successful decompression (p = 0.004) are associated with HA. Multivariate regression analysis showed that, for PEP and for PEP or HA as well as for HA, the risk factors are obstruction at the level of the proximal and middle third of the hepaticocholedochus (p = 0.005; p &lt; 0.001; p &lt; 0.001, respectively) and absence of MPD obstruction (p = 0.022; p &lt; 0.001; p = 0.008, respectively). Female gender is a risk factor for PEP or HA and HA (p = 0.011; p = 0.028, respectively), and catheterization and/or contrast injection into MPD are risk factors for PEP or HA (p = 0.04). Conclusion. Development of PEP in MEHBO depends on the localization of a tumor and involvement of the pancreas. The risk factors for PEP in MEHBO are tumor localization at the level of the middle and proximal third of the hepaticocholedochus and absence of MPD obstruction.

Multicenter retrospective cohort of EUS-guided anterograde pancreatic duct access

Background and study aims Pancreatic duct (PD) cannulation may be difficult during conventional endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) due to underlying pathology, anatomical variants or surgically altered anatomy. Pancreatic access in these cases previously necessitated percutaneous or surgical approaches. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) allows for an alternative and can be combined with ERCP for rendezvous during the same procedure, or for other salvage options. Patients and methods Patients with attempted EUS access of the PD from tertiary referral centers between 2009 and 2022 were included in the cohort. Demographic data, technical data, procedural outcomes and adverse events were collected. The primary outcome was rendezvous success. Secondary outcomes included rates of successful PD decompression and change in procedural success over time. Results The PD was accessed in 105 of 111 procedures (95 %), with successful subsequent ERCP in 45 of 95 attempts (47 %). Salvage direct PD stenting was performed in 5 of 14 attempts (36 %). Sixteen patients were scheduled for direct PD stenting (without rendezvous) with 100 % success rate. Thus 66 patients (59 %) had successful decompression. Success rates improved from 41 % in the first third of cases to 76 % in the final third. There were 13 complications (12 %), including post-procedure pancreatitis in seven patients (6 %). Conclusions EUS-guided anterograde pancreas access is a feasible salvage method if retrograde access fails. The duct can be cannulated, and drainage can be achieved in the majority of cases. Success rates improve over time. Future research may involve investigation into technical, patient and procedural factors contributing to rendezvous success.

A129 A RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF ENDOSCOPIC RETROGRADE CHOLANGIOPANCREATOGRAPHY IN PATIENTS WITH PANCREATICODUODENECTOMY

Abstract Background Surgically altered anatomy remains a challenge when performing advanced endoscopic procedures including endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Post-surgical anatomy frequently encountered in clinical practice that affects ERCP success includes Billroth II, roux-en-y gastric bypass, roux-en-y hepaticojejunostomy and pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). While ERCP has a success rate of 90-95% in patients with native anatomy, the data is less robust in patients with PD anatomy. Advancement of the endoscope to the surgical anastomoses remains challenging as PD anatomy requires accurate identification of the afferent limb, and encourages acute bowel angulation and loop formation. In addition, navigation to the anastomosis may be more challenging with a sideviewing endoscope. Although forward viewing endoscopes may more readily reach the surgical anastomosis, cannulation may be difficult without an elevator or device-appropriate instruments. As a result, a retrospective analysis of technical and clinical success rates in ERCP was analyzed in post-PD patients. Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate the technical and clinical success of ERCP in patients with post-PD anatomy. Method A retrospective analysis was conducted on all patients with post-PD anatomy referred to our institution between 2006 to 2021 for ERCP. Demographic and procedural details including gender, age, indications, primary malignancy, and anastomosis identification were collected. Major outcomes included technical success (TS) rate (successful biliary or pancreatic intervention) and clinical success (CS) rate (improvement in patient symptomatology or normalization of bilirubin level). Result(s) A total of 47 patients underwent 102 ERCPs for biliary (n = 98; 96.1%) and pancreatic (n = 4; 3.9%) indications. There were 31 (66.0%) male patients and 16 (34.0%) female patients. The average age of patients was 61.5 years. The most common primary malignancies included pancreatic adenocarcinoma (n = 26; 55.3%), pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (n = 5; 10.6%), and ampullary adenocarcinoma (n = 4; 8.5%). The most common indications for ERCP included obstructive jaundice (n = 22; 21.6%), stent evaluation (n = 30; 29.4%), and cholangitis (n = 35; 34.3%). Surgical anastomosis was identified in 90 (88.2%) patients. The overall TS and CS rates were 82.4% and 75.5%, respectively. When adjusted for anastomosis identification, the overall TS and CS rates were 93.3% and 82.2%. Conclusion(s) Despite the challenges of conducting ERCP in patients with post-PD anatomy, this retrospective analysis demonstrates an adequate overall TS and CS rate. Although endoscope advancement to the surgical anastomoses may be challenging, TS and CS rates improved if the anastomosis was reached and identified. The advent of endoscopic enteroenterostomy formation, balloon-assisted enterscopy, and rigidizing overtubes may assist in reaching surgical anastomoses. As a result, consideration should be undertaken to attempt ERCP in post-PD patients. Please acknowledge all funding agencies by checking the applicable boxes below None Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Resolution of Liver Function Tests After Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Exploration Versus Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) with laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) is gaining traction for the management of choledocholithiasis. Liver function tests (LFTs) are often used to determine the success of ductal clearance, yet the impact of differing therapeutic interventions, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) or LCBDE, have on postprocedure LFT is insufficiently described. We hypothesize that these interventions have different postoperative LFT profiles. The preprocedural and postprocedural total bilirubin (Tbili), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were analyzed of 167 patients who had successful ERCPs (117) or LCBDEs (50). Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography patients demonstrated a significant decrease in all LFTs postprocedure (n = 117; P = <0.001 for all) with a continued downtrend when a second set of LFTs was obtained (n = 102; P = <0.001 for all). For successful LC+LCBDEs, there was no significant change between preoperative and 1st postoperative Tbili, AST, ALT, and ALP and the 2nd postoperative labs.

A PROSPECTIVE CLINICAL STUDY OF COMMON BILE DUCT STONES AND THEIR MANAGEMENT IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Background and objective: CBD stones require intervention from two separate specialties: gastroenterologist and surgical team. Preferred methods for treatment are pre- or postoperative ERCP with endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy (EST), laparoscopic or open surgical bile duct clearance. It is unlikely that one option will be universally acceptable for all clinical circumstances in all centres. Disease status, patient demographics, availability of endoscopic, radiological and surgical expertise, and healthcare economics are the variables that will have signicant inuence on practice. Purpose of this study was to assess prevalence of CBD stones with their clinical prole and to evaluate management protocol and its complications. 50 patients aged &gt;18 years having Radiologically diagnosed CBD Methods: stones are included in our study. According to study selection criteria, patient information sheet, blood tests, imaging studies, postop factors and an informed consent taken in their own language, Patients underwent one of procedures such as ERCP followed by Laparoscopic cholecystectomy or Laparoscopic CBD exploration with Laparoscopic cholecystectomy or Open exploration of CBD with Cholecystectomy. A total of 50 patients Results: were taken for ERCP in our study. All patients who underwent ERCP with endoscopic sphincterotomy and stone removal used either a Dormia basket or a Fogarty balloon. The rate of success of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in removing CBD Stones was 46 out of 50 cases (92 percent). To Conclusion: summarize, no denite algorithm can be applied for management of common bile duct stones because patients' age, underlying general condition, and facilities for endoscopic, laparoscopic management are the only standardizable factors. The management differs from institution to institution, so the management of CBD stones must be tailored to the institution's resources.

Successful Intubation Using a Cap-Assisted Colonoscope for Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography in Patients Undergoing Roux-en-Y Reconstruction

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is challenging in patients undergoing Roux-en-Y (REY) reconstruction; although balloon-assisted enteroscopy is the first-line treatment, it is not always available considering equipment and expertise. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using a cap-assisted colonoscope as the primary approach for ERCP in REY reconstruction. We included 47 patients with REY who underwent ERCP using a cap-assisted colonoscope between January 2017 and February 2022. The primary outcome was intubation success for ERCP using a cap-assisted colonoscope during REY reconstruction. The secondary outcomes were cannulation success, procedure-related adverse events, and variables affecting successful intubation. Comparing side-to-side jejunojejunostomy (SS-JJ) and side-to-end jejunojejunostomy (SE-JJ) groups, the intubation success rate using a cap-assisted colonoscope in the SS-JJ group was higher than that in the SE-JJ group (34 of 38 (89.5%) vs. 1 of 9 (11.1%), p < 0.001). Successful intubation was achieved in 37 (97.4%) and 8 (88.9%) patients in the SS-JJ and SE-JJ groups, respectively, after applying the rescue technique using a balloon-assisted enteroscope for failed ERCP using only a colonoscope. No perforation occurred. Multivariable analysis showed that SS-JJ was a predictive factor for successful intubation (odds ratio [95% confidence interval] = 37.06 [3.91-925.56], p = 0.005). Usage of a cap-assisted colonoscope can be crucial for ERCP in patients undergoing REY reconstruction. Anatomically, SS-JJ can facilitate easy and accurate identification of the afferent limb and a highly successful ERCP using a cap-assisted colonoscope.

Safety and Efficacy of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-Pancreatography in Patients of Liver Cirrhosis: A Case-Control Study.

Background With the improvement in noninvasive diagnostic imaging modalities, Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-Pancreatography (ERCP) has evolved into a primarily therapeutic procedure. Besides being efficacious and one of the most commonly done procedures, ERCP is also associated with a high risk of complications. However, there is a lack of studies analyzing the safety and success of ERCP in patients with liver cirrhosis. We retrospectively evaluated the outcome of ERCP in patients with cirrhosis of the liver compared to non-cirrhotic patients using the database from our institute. Methods Patients with liver cirrhosis who underwent ERCP from January 2010 to March 2020 were analyzed. This was a matched case-control study in which one cirrhotic patient undergoing ERCP was age and gender-matched randomly to one non-cirrhotic patient. We compared adverse events and the success rate of ERCP between cirrhotic patients and non-cirrhotic patients. The primary outcome of the study was analyzing the prevalence of procedure-related adverse events and their independent risk factors in patients of cirrhosis compared to the non-cirrhotic population. Results Two hundred patients were analyzed in both groups. Choledocholithiasis was the most common reason for ERCP in both groups. Mean Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score and Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score in the cirrhosis group were 9.16 ±1.78 and 19.09 ±7.06 respectively. Patients in the cirrhosis group had a significantly higher frequency of complications compared to the controls: 41 (20.5 %) versus 15 (7.5%), p < 0.01. Bleeding was the most common adverse event in both groups: 19 (9.5%) vs 6(3%). High International Normalised Ratio (INR), low platelets, and cholangitis at presentation were independently predictive of post-ERCP complications. Despite a similar technical success rate, the clinical success rate was lower in the cirrhotic than in the noncirrhotic group (83.9% versus 97.9%, p=0.006). Conclusion The prevalence of complications following ERCP was nearly three-fold higher in patients with cirrhosis than in non-cirrhotic patients. These events were related primarily to cholangitis, coagulopathy, and the advanced status of chronic liver disease.

Successful ERCP application in pregnant women with cholestasis

We aimed to present successful endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) applications and results in our pregnant cases. A retrospective analysis was performed on the data of 14 successful ERCP procedures performed on our pregnant patients between 2016 and 2022. The ERCP operation was carried out on the patients while they were in the left decubitus position by endoscopists skilled in biliary endoscopy. Methods to lessen prenatal radiation exposure were used during the fluoroscopy procedure. Throughout the process, short-term fluoroscopies were employed. The duration of each fluoroscopy on the patient was noted. 14 pregnant women who presented with cholestasis results had ERCP and sphincterotomy. Two of the procedures were completed on full patients during the appropriate trimesters. Our pregnant women had a mean gestational age of 17.8 weeks and a mean mother age of 24.85.6 (19-38). The fluoroscopy took 0.16 minutes (0-35sec). Ten pregnant women (10 sec) had very little fetal radiation exposure, while four other pregnant women (4 sec to 14 sec) had some. The two women's combined prenatal radiation exposure was reportedly between 30 and 35 seconds. One mild bleeding after sphincterotomy, two hyperamylasemia following ERCP, and one case of acute respiratory distress syndrome were procedure-related complications. Two days after an ERCP, cholecystitis manifested in one pregnant woman. When measures are taken as directed by a multidisciplinary team, ERCP can be used during pregnancy without risk and produce positive outcomes.

Factors and techniques associated with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography outcomes in patients with periampullary diverticulum: Results from a large tertiary center.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for patients with periampullary diverticulum (PAD) remains a challenge. This study aims to investigate the factors and techniques related to successful and safe ERCP in patients with PAD. We enrolled patients who underwent ERCP in a large tertiary center. The difficult cannulation rate, technical success rate, clinical success rate, and adverse events (AEs) rate were compared between patients with or without PAD. Three independent logistic regression models were established to identify factors and techniques associated with difficult cannulation, clinical success, and AEs. Five thousand five hundred and ninety patients were included, of which 705 (12.6%) were diagnosed with PAD. Patients with PAD had a significantly higher difficult cannulation rate compared with patients without PAD (10.6% vs 8.0%, P < 0.0001), but the rates of technical success (clinical success (95.2% vs 95.2%, P = 0.951), and AEs (16.5% vs 14.4%, P = 0.156) were similar. Type I PAD (odds ratio [OR] = 2.114, 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.05-5.25) and ERCP indication for pancreatic diseases (OR = 1.196, 95%CI: 1.053-1.261) were independently associated with difficult cannulation. Small endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) with balloon dilatation (OR = 1.581, 95%CI: 1.044-2.393) was independently associated with clinical success. Somatostatin injection showed no preventive effect on post-ERCP pancreatitis (OR = 1.144, 95%CI: 1.044-1.254). Moreover, the auxiliary cannulation techniques were safe for PAD patients. PAD did not affect ERCP outcomes. However, the choice of techniques and AE prophylactic measures should be more specific, especially for patients with type I PAD.

Efficacy and safety of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with endoscopic sphincterotomy and biliary stenting in post-operative bile leaks.

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), sphincterotomy, balloon biliary tract scanning, and plastic stenting in diagnosing and treating bile duct leakage after laparoscopic cholecystectomy and hydatid cyst surgery in this study. The study evaluated patients who underwent ERCP, sphincterotomy, and stenting for post-operative bile leakage. The patients were grouped under 4 groups (cystic duct stump, sac bed, hydatid cyst, and choledochal) according to the bile leakage de-tected in the ERCP procedure. The success of the procedure after the ERCP was evaluated by drain extraction time, whether early complications such as bleeding, pancreatitis, and perforation developed due to the ERCP procedure and the presence of obstructive pathology in ERCP. Clinical improvement was observed in 65/73 (89%) patients who underwent successful ERCP procedures, and their drains could be removed. The mean drain removal time was 32.69±23.32 days. After laparoscopic cholecystectomy, bile leakage was most frequently from the cystic duct stump. There was no difference between the groups in procedural success rates. Drain removal time was shorter in the patient group with leakage from the cystic duct compared to the other three groups (P<0.05). After the ERCP procedure, 5/73 (6.9%) patients had minor ERCP complications, which improved with medical treatment. No major ERCP complication was observed. In addition, 25/73 patients (34.2%) had obstructive pathology such as biliary stone and hydatid membrane. In patients with biliary leak due to laparoscopic cholecystectomy and hydatid cyst surgery, ERCP, sphincterotomy, balloon scanning, and plastic stenting are both highly effective and reliable options. They should be considered as the first-choice treat-ment approach in this patient group.

Impact of periampullary diverticulum on biliary cannulation: A retrospective cohort study

AbstractThe prevalence of periampullary diverticulum (PAD) is relatively high in patients who undergo endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). It is currently unclear if the presence of PAD impacts the success, difficulty, and complication rates of ERCP. The aim of the study is to investigate and compare the success rate, procedure difficulty, and complication rate between patients with or without PAD. Patients with PAD were further analyzed according to location and size. A total of 548 ERCP procedures were performed at our endoscopy center from 2015 to 2016. Those patients with previous ERCP, inability to locate the ampulla or abandoned procedure were excluded. 357 procedures were analyzed. A t test (normally distributed) or Mann‐Whitney U test (skewed) for continuous data and chi‐square or fisher's exact test for categorical data. A total of 116 were found to have PAD. The ampulla was located within the diverticulum in 8.9%, on the edge in 38.9%, and near in 52.2%. 64.3% of the PAD was large and 35.7% small. Patients with PAD were significantly older (P &lt; .001) and more likely to undergo ERCP for common bile duct stone (P = .007). There was no difference in ERCP grade, cannulation difficulty, cannulation success, procedure time, and complication rate between the two groups. Location and size of PAD also did not impact ERCP. The presence of PAD did not affect ERCP cannulation rates, increase the difficulty of cannulation or caused more complications.