Post-ERCP Pancreatitis — What Is the Best Approach for Prevention?

AbstractPurpose of ReviewPost-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP) is the most common adverse event following ERCP. The purpose of this review is to highlight prevention strategies and recent developments in this area and summarize current recommendations to reduce PEP rates.Recent FindingsPEP prevention continues to rely heavily on use of peri-procedural rectal non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and intravenous aggressive hydration (AH) while shying away from more invasive maneuvers such as pancreatic stents except in high-risk cases. Comparative studies of medical therapy, AH, and pancreatic stents are beginning to emerge.SummaryAcute pancreatitis remains the most common adverse event following ERCP. Prevention continues to evolve and requires a multi-disciplinary approach of careful risk assessment and procedural planning, peri-operative pharmacotherapy, selective AH, and pancreatic stenting for high-risk patients.
Source: Current Treatment Options in Gastroenterology - Category: Gastroenterology Source Type: research