DOES AGE INFLUENCE IN ENDOSCOPIC THERAPEUTIC SUCCESS ON THE BILIARY TRACT?

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Endoscopic Procedures
• Biliary Tract Interventions

Background:

• Retrograde endoscopic cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is effective for biliary and pancreatic disorders.
• Precise indications are crucial to avoid delayed treatment, increased costs, and adverse events.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare clinical, radiological, and exploratory characteristics related to therapeutic success in ERCP patients based on age.
• To evaluate the impact of age on ERCP outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 421 patients undergoing ERCP, excluding those with inaccessible duodenal papilla.
• Patients divided into two groups: <60 years (group 1) and >60 years (group 2).
• Analysis of gender, indications, radiological findings, therapeutic success, diagnosis, and adverse events.

Main Results:

• Group 2 (>60 years) showed higher rates of acute cholangitis, biliary stenosis, and papilla cancer.
• Urgent ERCP indications and biliary tract dilatation diagnoses were more frequent in group 2.
• Therapeutic success, specifically catheterization and biliary tract clearance, was significantly higher in group 1 (<60 years) (p=0.016, OR=2.1).

Conclusions:

• Younger patients (<60 years) demonstrate significantly higher success rates in ERCP catheterization and complete bile duct clearance.
• Age is a significant factor influencing ERCP outcomes, particularly in achieving successful biliary tract clearance.