Safety of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in patients aged 85 years and older: A single center experience

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in elderly patients (≥85 years old). Material and Methods: Patients who underwent ERCP for any reason within 12 months were evaluated. Patients undergoing ERCP were classified as the elderly group aged 85 years and older or the controls under the age of 85 years. Results: A total of 1225 patients, 504 males and 721 females, were included in the study. Length of hospital stay, the number of patients in whom pre- cut sphincterotomy was performed in ERCP, and mortality rate showed similar characteristics compared to the control group in patients with advanced age (≥85 years old). Except for pancreatitis, there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of complications related to the procedure. Post ERCP pancreatitis was observed significantly less in the elderly group (p= 0.042). Pre-cut sphincterotomy was required in a total of 191 (15.5%) patients. In patients who underwent pre-cut sphincterotomy and patients with cholangitis, post ERCP complication rates were not significant between the groups. Conclusion: ERCP is a safe procedure for older patients (≥85 years old) as well as young patients.