PROPHYLACTIC PANCREATIC DUCT STENTING FOR PREVENTION OF POST-ERCP PANCREATITIS

Abstract

ERCP and related procedures are essential for diagnosing and treating pancreaticobiliary diseases. However, ERCP is associated with several adverse events, with post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) being a more frequently encountered adverse event than others. Understanding the PEP risk factors, including patient-related and procedural, is imperative for preventing this complication. Elevated intraductal pancreatic duct and tissue pressure and pancreatic fluid congestion resulting from papillary edema are potential contributing factors to PEP. Placement of prophylactic pancreatic duct stent prevents the increase in intraductal pancreatic pressure caused by papillary edema and is effective in PEP prevention, particularly in high-risk cases. This paper outlines the PEP-associated risk factors and describes the prophylactic pancreatic ductal stenting procedure.