Best practices for prevention of post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Background:

• Acute pancreatitis is a leading cause of hospital admissions globally.
• Post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) is a significant iatrogenic etiology of acute pancreatitis.
• Existing research on PEP pathogenesis and prevention yields heterogeneous findings, leading to varied clinical practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current literature on PEP.
• To raise awareness of PEP as an iatrogenic disorder.
• To present evidence-based best practices for PEP management.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of studies on PEP.
• Analysis of recent data on PEP pathogenesis and prevention.
• Synthesis of evidence for best practice recommendations.

Main Results:

• PEP is a frequent complication following ERCP.
• Significant variation exists in current clinical management strategies for PEP.
• Evidence-based guidelines are needed to standardize care.

Conclusions:

• PEP requires increased awareness among healthcare professionals.
• Standardized, evidence-based practices are crucial for managing PEP.
• This review aims to guide endoscopists and other specialists in PEP patient management.