Evaluation of our first–year endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography results

INTRODUCTION: In this study, the results of the first year of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which has been started to be performed in our center, have been evaluated.
METHODS: A retrospective analysis was carried out with data of 345 patients who underwent ERCP performed by the same team at a single center between April 2019 and April 2020. The patients were assessed for demographic data, indications for the procedure, procedure–related complications, endoscopic findings and interventions.
RESULTS: A total of 345 patients underwent the procedure, with a total of 412 procedures were performed. The patient group comprised 210 women and 135 men, with a mean age of 56.4 (19–86) years. The mean duration of the procedure was 12 (4–48) minutes. The most common (60.4%) indications for ERCP were radiologically detected ductus choledochus stones and elevated liver enzymes and/or hyperbilirubinemia. Successful cannulation was performed using a standard sphincterotome in a total of 370 procedures. The number of procedures performed using a precut needle–knife sphincterotome was 28; however, cannulation was successful only in 16. The total cannulation rate was 93.6%. The most common complication (2.9%) was post–ERCP pancreatitis and 30 (7.2%) patients developed post–ERCP complications.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is an endoscopic method commonly used for the treatment of pancreaticobiliary diseases. We believe that it should be applied as a therapeutic procedure rather than as a diagnostic tool, being an invasive procedure.