Prospective evaluation of post-ERCP gastrointestinal dysfunction using the I-FEED scoring system: A cohort study.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Clinical Outcomes Research

Background:

• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a common procedure with potential gastrointestinal complications.
• Post-ERCP gastrointestinal dysfunction (POGD) is a recognized but not fully characterized adverse event.
• Objective assessment tools are needed to evaluate recovery and identify patients at risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence of POGD after ERCP.
• To identify factors associated with POGD development.
• To evaluate the correlation between the I-FEED score and clinical outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A single-center, prospective, observational cohort study enrolled 273 patients undergoing elective ERCP.
• Data collected included demographics, procedural details, I-FEED scores, length of stay, and 30-day readmission.
• POGD was defined as an I-FEED score ≥ 6.

Main Results:

• POGD occurred in 19.8% of patients, with Post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) being a common associated condition.
• Independent risk factors for POGD included younger age, suspected Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (SOD), difficult cannulation, pancreatic sphincterotomy, and PEP.
• An I-FEED score ≥ 6 correlated with longer hospital stays, increased nasogastric tube use, and lower patient satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• POGD is a frequent and significant complication following ERCP.
• The I-FEED scoring system is a valuable tool for assessing gastrointestinal recovery post-ERCP.
• Findings can inform clinical management and postoperative care strategies for ERCP patients.