Prevention of Post-ERCP Pancreatitis

Gastroenterol Res Pract. 2012:2012:796751. doi: 10.1155/2012/796751. Epub 2011 Aug 10.

Abstract

Pancreatitis is the most common complication of ERCP. It can be associated with substantial morbidity. Hence, the minimization of both the incidence and severity of post-ERCP pancreatitis is paramount. Considerable efforts have been made to identify factors that may be associated with an increased risk of this complication. In addition, both procedure- and pharmacological-related interventions have been proposed that may prevent this complication. This paper outlines these interventions and presents the evidence to support their use in the prevention of post-ERCP pancreatitis.