Guidewire in the pancreatic duct: key to risk and rescue for post-ERCP pancreatitis

Over the past decade, the pendulum has swung in different directions on how to best access bile ducts during ERCP while minimizing the risk of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) and other complications. PEP occurs after 2% to 15% of ERCPs and is associated with significant morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and substantial financial impact on the health care system. In the United States, more than 200 million dollars are spent annually to manage PEP.1 The success rates of biliary access can vary widely, but in expert hands they can approach 95% to 100% in patients without duodenal deformity.
Source: Gastrointestinal Endoscopy - Category: Gastroenterology Authors: Tags: Original article Source Type: research