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Beaton D, Rutter M, Sharp L, Oppong KW, Awadelkarim B, Everett SM, Mitra V. UK ERCP sedation practices, patient comfort and endoscopist characteristics: National Endoscopy Database (NED) analysis on behalf of the JAG and BSG. Frontline Gastroenterol 2023; 14:384-391. [PMID: 37581181 PMCID: PMC10423606 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2023-102424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives This analysis assessed current endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) practice within the UK, including use of sedation and patient comfort. Methods ERCPs conducted over 1 year (1 July 2021-30 June 2022) and uploaded to the National Endoscopy Database (NED) were analysed. The endoscopist workforce was classified by gender and specialty, use of sedation was analysed. Logistic regression was used to assess associations between patient age, gender and procedure indications on moderate to severe discomfort risk. Results 27 812 ERCPs were performed by 491 endoscopists in 175 sites and uploaded to NED, an estimated 50% of total UK activity. 13% were training procedures, 94% of the endoscopists were male, with 72% being gastroenterologists. Most ERCPs were performed under conscious sedation (89%). The discomfort rate among patients aged 60-90 undergoing ERCP under conscious sedation was 4.2% (95% CI 3.9% to 4.5%), with only 5.5% (95% CI 5.2% to 5.9%) receiving greater than 5 mg midazolam or 100 µg fentanyl.Younger patients (<30 years) had a higher discomfort risk during conscious sedation ERCPs than those aged 70-79 (OR 3.0, 95% CI 2.2 to 4.3, p<0.05), while male patients had a lower discomfort risk compared with females (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.8 to 1.0, p=0.05).Enhanced sedation (propofol or general anaesthetic) was associated with lower frequency of discomfort (0.3%, 95% CI 0.1 to 0.6) compared with conscious sedation (5.1%, 95% CI 4.9% to 5.4%, p<0.05). Conclusions Conscious sedation is well tolerated for most patients and prescribing practices have improved. However, triage of more patients, particularly young females, to enhanced sedation lists should be considered to reduce discomfort rates in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Beaton
- Gastroenterology, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, Stockton-on-Tees, UK
| | - Matt Rutter
- Gastroenterology, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, Stockton-on-Tees, UK
- Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Linda Sharp
- Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Kofi W Oppong
- Hepatobiliary Unit, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Simon M Everett
- Gastroenterology, St James's University Hospital NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Vikramjit Mitra
- Gastroenterology, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, Stockton-on-Tees, UK
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Prognosis and risk factors of ERCP pancreatitis in elderly. Sci Rep 2021; 11:15930. [PMID: 34354184 PMCID: PMC8342449 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95484-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Post Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis is one of the most serious complications of ERCP. Our study aims to investigate the risk, predisposing factors and prognosis of pancreatitis after ERCP in elderly patients. Patients referred to the ERCP unit between April 2008 and 2012 and admitted to the hospital at least 1 day after the ERCP procedure were included to the study. Information including patient’s demographics, diagnosis, imaging findings, biochemical analysis, details of the ERCP procedure and complications were recorded. The severity of post ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) was determined by revised Atlanta Criteria as well as APACHE II and Ranson scores. A total of 2902 ERCP patients were evaluated and 988 were included to the study. Patients were divided into two groups as ≥ 65 years old (494 patients, 259 F, 235 M) and < 65 years old (494 patients, 274 F, 220 M). PEP was diagnosed in 4.3% of patients aged 65 years and older. The female gender was risk factors in elderly for PEP. The Sphincter Oddi Dysfunction (SOD) and Juxta papillary diverticula (JPD) were higher in elderly patients with PEP. Age did not increase the risk of PEP development. The most important post ERCP pancreatitis risk factor in the elderly is the female gender, while the risk is enhanced slightly by SOD and JPD.
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Bernica J, Elhanafi S, Kalakota N, Jia Y, Dodoo C, Dwivedi A, Sealock RJ, Patel K, Raijman I, Zuckerman MJ, Othman MO. Cholangioscopy Is Safe and Feasible in Elderly Patients. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 16:1293-1299.e2. [PMID: 29505911 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2018.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Revised: 01/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Although cholangioscopy is widely used during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatiography (ERCP), its safety and feasibility for elderly patients are not well established. We aimed to evaluate the safety and feasibility of cholangioscopy in elderly patients. METHODS We performed a retrospective study of all ERCPs with single-operator cholangioscopy (SOC) performed at 3 tertiary referral hospitals from March 2012 through October 2015. We collected data on patient demographics, procedure indications, findings, complications, and success rates (complete success was achieved if all intended diagnostic and therapeutic procedures were performed, such as tissue sample collection or complete removal of stones). The cohort was divided into 3 groups: patients younger than 65 years (group 1, n = 178), patients 65-75 years old (group 2, n = 86), and patients older than 75 years (group 3, n = 77). We used 1-way ANOVA, the χ2 test, and the Wilcoxon sum rank test to compare study variables. The primary aim was to assess rates of complications from ERCP with SOC in elderly patients compared with younger patients. RESULTS Baseline clinical features were similar among groups, except for a higher prevalence of co-morbidities in group 3. The indication for and findings from ERCP with SOC differed among the groups; stricture or tumor was the most common indication in groups 1 and 3-the most common findings were strictures and masses, respectively. In group 2, choledocholithiasis was the most common indication and finding. The success rate, analyzed in a subset of 209 patients, was 88.5% overall and did not differ significantly among groups. The overall rate of complication was 7.33% with no significant difference among groups (7.30% for group 1, 6.98% for group 2, and 7.79% for group 3) (P < .17). CONCLUSIONS In a retrospective analysis of ERCPs with SOCs, we found this procedure to be safe for elderly patients (older than 75 years), who had rates of complications and hospital admission similar to those of younger patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Bernica
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Section, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Sherif Elhanafi
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Section, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Neeharika Kalakota
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Section, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Yi Jia
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, Texas
| | - Christopher Dodoo
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, Texas
| | - Alok Dwivedi
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, Texas
| | - Robert J Sealock
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Section, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Kalpesh Patel
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Section, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Isaac Raijman
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Section, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Marc J Zuckerman
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, Texas
| | - Mohamed O Othman
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Section, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.
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García García de Paredes A, Mateos Muñoz B, Albillos A. [Gastrointestinal endoscopy in patients of advanced age]. Rev Esp Geriatr Gerontol 2018; 53:293-298. [PMID: 29598971 DOI: 10.1016/j.regg.2018.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The dramatic increase in life expectancy is leading to a significant increase in the use of gastrointestinal endoscopy in the elderly. Taking into account these demographic changes, the use of gastrointestinal endoscopy in this age group is of great importance. Although these procedures are generally safe and well tolerated even in very elderly patients, the onset of physiological changes associated with aging and the increased prevalence of cardiovascular and pulmonary comorbidities raise the risk of sedation related complications in these patients. Age alone is not a contraindication for performing any endoscopic procedure. However, elderly patients have their own peculiarities that require a detailed review of the characteristics, risks and benefits of endoscopic procedures in this specific context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana García García de Paredes
- Departamento de Gastroenterología y Hepatología, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, España.
| | - Beatriz Mateos Muñoz
- Departamento de Gastroenterología y Hepatología, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, España
| | - Agustín Albillos
- Departamento de Gastroenterología y Hepatología, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, España
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Tohda G, Ohtani M, Dochin M. Efficacy and safety of emergency endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for acute cholangitis in the elderly. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:8382-8388. [PMID: 27729744 PMCID: PMC5055868 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i37.8382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2016] [Revised: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate the efficacy and safety of emergency endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in elderly patients with acute cholangitis.
METHODS From June 2008 to May 2016, emergency ERCPs were performed in 207 cases of acute cholangitis at our institution. Patients were classified as elderly if they were aged 80 years and older (n = 102); controls were under the age of 80 years (n = 105). The patients’ medical records were retrospectively reviewed for comorbidities, laboratory data, etiology of cholangitis (presence of biliary stones, biliary stricture and malignancy), details of the ERCP (therapeutic approaches, technical success rates, procedure duration), ERCP-related complications and mortality.
RESULTS The frequency of comorbidities was higher in the elderly group than the control group (91.2% vs 67.6%). Periampullary diverticulum was observed in the elderly group at a higher frequency than the control group (24.5% vs 13.3%). Between the groups, there was no significant difference in the technical success rates (95.1% vs 95.2%) or endoscopic procedure durations. With regard to the frequency of ERCP-related complications, there was no significant difference between the two groups (6.9% vs 6.7%), except for a lower rate of post-ERCP pancreatitis in the elderly group than in the control group (1.0% vs 3.8%). Neither angiographic nor surgical intervention was required in any of the cases with ERCP-related complications. There was no mortality during the observational periods.
CONCLUSION Emergency ERCP for acute cholangitis can be performed safely even in elderly patients aged 80 years and older.
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Pericleous S, Smith LI, Karim MA, Middleton N, Musbahi A, Ali A. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in Ayrshire, Scotland: a comparison of two age cohorts. Scott Med J 2015; 60:95-100. [PMID: 25784294 DOI: 10.1177/0036933015576695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS There is an increased trend in prevalence of pancreato-biliary disease in the elderly population. Consequently there is an increasing demand for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The aims of this study were to compare ERCP outcomes in patients over 80 with those aged between 60 and 79 years and with the published literature. METHODS AND RESULTS Data were collected from a prospectively maintained database. All patients over the age of 60 years who underwent ERCP from May 2010 to May 2012 were identified. Two cohorts were formed, group A: 60-79 years (n = 66) and group B: > 80 years old (n = 49). Data on indications for ERCP, outcome, complications and repeat procedures were collected. One hundred and fifteen patients between the age of 60 and 92 years were identified. Group A had a total of 89 ERCPs and group B 69. Cannulation, overall procedure success, complication and mortality rates were comparable between both groups. Group B contained two cases of perforation with one associated mortality (1.4%) which did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS ERCP in octogenarians is safe and effective when compared to patients aged 60-79.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nicos Middleton
- Assistant Professor, Cyprus University of Technology, Cyprus
| | - Aya Musbahi
- FY1 Surgery, Department of General Surgery, University Hospital Ayr, UK
| | - Abdulmajid Ali
- Consultant Surgeon, Department of General Surgery, Univeristy Hospital Ayr, UK
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Razavi F, Gross S, Katz S. Endoscopy in the elderly: risks, benefits, and yield of common endoscopic procedures. Clin Geriatr Med 2014; 30:133-47. [PMID: 24267608 DOI: 10.1016/j.cger.2013.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
There has been limited research examining the risks, benefits, and use of common endoscopic procedures in the elderly. Furthermore, gastroenterology training programs do not routinely incorporate elderly concerns when dealing with common gastrointestinal issues. There exists a broad array of endoscopic procedures with varying inherent risks that must be weighed with each elderly patient in mind. This article discusses the benefits and drawbacks of the most common procedures and indications for endoscopy including upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, endoscopic ultrasound, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, and deep enteroscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farid Razavi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Langone Medical Center, New York University, 550 1st Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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Day LW, Lin L, Somsouk M. Adverse events in older patients undergoing ERCP: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Endosc Int Open 2014; 2:E28-36. [PMID: 26134610 PMCID: PMC4423280 DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1365281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2013] [Accepted: 01/20/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS Biliary and pancreatic diseases are common in the elderly; however, few studies have addressed the occurrence of adverse events in elderly patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Our objective was to determine the incidence rates of specific adverse events in this group and calculate incidence rate ratios (IRRs) for selected comparison groups. PATIENTS AND METHODS Bibliographical searches were conducted in Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane library databases. The studies included documented the incidence of adverse events (perforation, pancreatitis, bleeding, cholangitis, cardiopulmonary adverse events, mortality) in patients aged ≥ 65 who underwent ERCP. Pooled incidence rates were calculated for each reported adverse event and IRRs were determined for available comparison groups. A parallel analysis was performed in patients aged ≥ 80 and ≥ 90. RESULTS Our literature search yielded 7429 articles, of which 69 studies met our inclusion criteria. Pooled incidence rates for adverse events (per 1000 ERCPs) in patients aged ≥ 65 were as follows: perforation 3.8 (95 %CI 1.8 - 7.0), pancreatitis 13.1 (95 %CI 11.0 - 15.5), bleeding 7.7 (95 %CI 5.7 - 10.1), cholangitis 16.1 (95 %CI 11.7 - 21.7), cardiopulmonary events 3.7 (95 %CI 1.5 - 7.6), and death 7.1 (95 %CI 5.2 - 9.4). Patients ≥ 65 had lower rates of pancreatitis (IRR 0.3, 95 %CI 0.3 - 0.4) compared with younger patients. Octogenarians had higher rates of death (IRR 2.4, 95 %CI 1.3 - 4.5) compared with younger patients, whereas nonagenarians had increased rates of bleeding (IRR 2.4, 95 %CI 1.1 - 5.2), cardiopulmonary events (IRR 3.7, 95 %CI 1.0 - 13.9), and death (IRR 3.8, 95 %CI 1.0 - 14.4). Conclusions ERCP appears to be safe in elderly patients, except in the very elderly who are at higher risk of some adverse events. These data on adverse event rates can help to inform clinical decision-making, the consent process, and comparative effectiveness analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukejohn W. Day
- Division of Gastroenterology, San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, San Francisco, California, United States
- GI Health Outcomes, Policy and Economics (HOPE) Research Program, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Lisa Lin
- Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States
| | - Ma Somsouk
- Division of Gastroenterology, San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, San Francisco, California, United States
- GI Health Outcomes, Policy and Economics (HOPE) Research Program, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States
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Chandrasekhara V, Early DS, Acosta RD, Chathadi KV, Decker GA, Evans JA, Fanelli RD, Fisher DA, Foley KQ, Fonkalsrud L, Hwang JH, Jue T, Khashab MA, Lightdale JR, Muthusamy VR, Pasha SF, Saltzman JR, Sharaf R, Shergill AK, Cash BD. Modifications in endoscopic practice for the elderly. Gastrointest Endosc 2013; 78:1-7. [PMID: 23664042 DOI: 10.1016/j.gie.2013.04.161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2013] [Accepted: 04/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Abstract
With increasing age, the incidence of both benign and malignant gastrointestinal (GI) disease rises. Endoscopic procedures are commonly performed in elderly and very elderly patients to diagnose and treat GI disorders. There are a number of issues to contemplate when considering performing an endoscopic procedure in an elderly patient, including the anticipated benefits of endoscopy as well as the increased risks associated with procedural sedation and some endoscopic procedures. This review will focus on the yield and safety of endoscopic procedures in older adults.
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Mönkemüller K, Fry LC, Malfertheiner P, Schuckardt W. Gastrointestinal endoscopy in the elderly: current issues. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2009; 23:821-7. [PMID: 19942160 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2009.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2009] [Revised: 09/22/2009] [Accepted: 10/01/2009] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Even though endoscopy is performed in patients of all ages, currently there is little literature on this topic in elderly patients. As a result of population demographics the use of endoscopy is expected to rise in this section of the population. Elderly patients represent a special group of patients, as they usually have a higher incidence of co-morbid diseases and may be more susceptible to endoscopic interventions. Due to the decreased physiologic reserve and associated diseases, complications in elderly patients can be more severe than in adult or young subjects. Moreover, ethical considerations play a special role in elderly frail patients with a potential poor prognosis. Thus, the endoscopist needs to pay special attention when considering or performing endoscopy in elderly patients. The aim of this article is to review the role of endoscopy in elderly patients, paying special emphasis on indications, special precautions and specific interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus Mönkemüller
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Marienhospital GmbH, Josef-Albers-Strasse 70, Bottrop, Germany.
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Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in elderly patients. Age Ageing 1999; 351:84-90. [PMID: 26802762 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjms.2015.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND the presentation of common bile duct disease, value of investigations and treatment outcome in elderly patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) were assessed. METHODOLOGY the clinical presentation, liver function tests, full blood counts, abdominal ultrasound and ERCP results were assessed retrospectively in 101 patients (59 women, 42 men; mean age 83 years, range 75-100) sequentially investigated for possible common bile duct disease. RESULTS 59 patients had common bile duct gallstones, 35 had malignant biliary obstruction (13 with co-existing common bile duct stones) and seven had other outcomes. In the malignant-alone group 68% of those who had jaundice presented painlessly compared with 24% in the gallstones-alone group; 49% of the gallstones-alone group had pain compared with 28% of the malignant group. In the gallstones-alone group 43% had atypical presentations (non-specific symptoms or painless jaundice). Non-specific symptoms were found in 19% of the gallstones-alone group but in only 5% of the malignant group. Of the patients who had common bile duct stones, 18% had pancreatic or biliary malignancy. The co-existence of gallstones and malignancy was emphasized by eight patients in whom the clinical and ultrasound diagnosis was of common bile duct stones but malignancy was detected by ERCP. The sensitivity of ultrasound was 86% for detecting dilated common bile ducts was 86%, but only 69% for diagnosing gallstones within the common bile duct and 67% for diagnosing pancreatic masses. Ultrasound and ERCP were in agreement in 60 patients (60%). Endoscopic clearance of common bile duct gallstones was successful in 53 of 54 attempts (98%). Palliative ERCP treatment was performed in 30 patients who had malignant biliary obstruction and was successful in 22 (73%); in a further four patients (13%) an endoprothesis was successfully inserted percutaneously. The commonest complication of ERCP was cholangitis (four patients); pancreatitis and biliary perforation occurred in one patient each. Twenty-two patients (63%) who had malignancy died during follow-up, the mean survival being 11.3 weeks (range 3 days-2 years). Carcinoma of the ampulla was associated with a relatively good prognosis (three patients survived 18 months or more). CONCLUSION in elderly patients, common bile duct stones often present atypically and co-existence with malignancy is not unusual; ampullary carcinoma has a relatively good prognosis and ERCP is a safe and effective procedure in the management of biliary obstruction.
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