Surgical and Non-Surgical Management of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Complications

Aim: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), as a major tool for diagnosing and treatment of pancreatobiliary diseases has many potential complications with a relatively high rate of mortality and morbidity which could be managed surgically and conservatively. In this study we evaluated post-ERCP complications and their management. Material and Method: In this prospective single center study, 708 diagnostic and therapeutic ERCPs carried on 630 patients (41.7% male with mean age of 59.73±17.78 years) in Imam Reza hospital, Tabriz, Iran between April 2011 and September 2012 were studied. Patients%u2019 demographic, clinical and laboratory findings as well as ERCP complications, clinical presentation, management, and outcomes were recorded. Results: ERCP was successful in 87% and 6.8% had complications including pancreatitis in 4.58%, duodenal perforation in 0.84%, basket trapping in 0.42%, bleeding and cholangitis each in 0.14%. Twenty-five percent of complications needed surgical intervention. Complicated patients with previous history of cholecystecomy and successful ERCP were mainly managed conservatively. Discussion: ERCP complications are low and few need surgical treatment. Prompt identification and treatment of the complications would prepare better outcome and reduce undesirable morbidity and mortalities