Laparoscopy-assisted transgastric endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in bariatric Roux-en-Y gastric bypass patients

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) approach for patients with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a comparative study between four ERCP techniques with proposed management algorithm

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is technically challenging in patients with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) due to altered anatomy.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the procedural and clinical outcomes of 4 different ERCP techniques in RYGB patients.

SETTING

Academic tertiary referral center in the United States.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study including patients with RYGB anatomy who underwent an ERCP between January 2015 and September 2020. We compared procedural success and adverse events (AEs) rates of balloon-assisted enteroscopy (BAE), gastrostomy-assisted ERCP (GAE), endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-directed transgastric ERCP (EDGE), and rendezvous guidewire-assisted ERCP (RGA).

RESULTS

Seventy-eight RYGB patients underwent a total of 132 ERCPs. The mean age was 60 ± 11.8 years, with female predominance (85.7%). The ERCP procedures performed were BAE (n = 64; 48.5%), GAE (n = 18; 13.7%), EDGE (n = 25; 18.9%), and RGA (n = 25; 18.9%), with overall procedure success rates of 64.1%, 100%, 89.5%, and 91.7%, respectively. All approaches were superior to BAE (GAE versus BAE, P = .003; EDGE versus BAE, P = .034; RGA versus BAE, P = .011). The overall AE rates were 10.9%, 11.1%, 15.8 %, and 25.0%, respectively. There was no statistical difference in AEs. There were also no differences in bleeding, post-ERCP pancreatitis, and perforation rates between the 4 approaches.

CONCLUSION

Procedure success was similar between GAE, RGA, and EDGE, but superior to BAE. AE rates were similar between approaches.

Safety and efficacy of LA-ERCP procedure following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Rapid weight loss following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery (RYGB) translates to an increased need for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) intervention. Laparoscopically Assisted Transgastric ERCP (LA-ERCP) has emerged to address the issue of accessing the excluded stomach. This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of LA-ERCP procedure following RYGB.

METHODS

The Cochrane, EMBASE, SCOPUS, MEDLINE, Daily and Epub databases were searched from inception to May 2022 using the PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies reported participants older than 18 years who underwent the LA-ERCP procedure, following RYGB, and outcomes of patients.

RESULTS

27 unique studies met the inclusion criteria with 1283 patients undergoing 1303 LA-ERCP procedures. 81.9% of the patients were female and the mean age was 52.18 ± 13.38 years. The rate of concurrent cholecystectomy was 33.6%. 90.9% of procedures were undertaken for a biliary indication. The mean time between RYGB and LA-ERCP was 89.19 months. The most common intervention performed during the LA-ERCP was a sphincterotomy (94.3%). Mean total operative time was 130.48 min. Mean hospital length of stay was 2.697 days. Technical success was 95.3%, while clinical success was 93.8%. 294 complications were recorded with a 20.6% complication rate. The most frequent complications encountered were pancreatitis (6.8%), infection (6.1%), bleeding (3.4%), and perforation (2.5%). Rate of conversion to open laparotomy was 7%.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis presents preliminary evidence to suggest the safety and efficacy of LA-ERCP procedure following RYGB. Further investigations are warranted to evaluate the long-term efficacy of this procedure using studies with long-term patient follow-up.

Comparison between Enteroscopy-, Laparoscopy- and Endoscopic Ultrasound-Assisted Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-Pancreatography in Patients with Surgically Altered Anatomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background and Aims: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), in surgically altered anatomy (SAA), can be challenging and the optimal technique selection remains debatable. Most common foregut interventions resulting to this burden consist of Billroth II gastrectomy, Whipple surgery and Roux-en-Y anastomoses, including gastric by-pass. This systematic review, with meta-analysis, aimed to compare the rates of successful enteroscope-assisted (EA)-, endosonography-directed transgastric- (EDGE), and laparoscopy-assisted (LA)-ERCP. Methods: A systematic research (Medline) was performed for relative studies, through January 2022. The primary outcome was technical success, defined as approaching the ampulla site. Secondary outcomes included the desired duct cannulation, successful therapeutic manipulations, and complication rates. We performed meta-analyses of pooled data, and subgroup analysis considering the EA-ERCP subtypes (spiral-, double and single balloon-enteroscope). Pooled rates are reported as percentages with 95% Confidence Intervals (95%CIs). Results: Seventy-six studies were included (3569 procedures). Regarding primary outcome, EA-ERCP was the least effective [87.3% (95%CI: 85.3–89.4); I2: 91.0%], whereas EDGE and LA-ERCP succeeded in 97.9% (95%CI: 96.4–99.4; I2: 0%) and 99.1% (95%CI: 98.6–99.7; I2: 0%), respectively. Similarly, duct cannulation and therapeutic success rates were 74.7% (95%CI: 71.3–78.0; I2: 86.9%) and 69.1% (95%CI: 65.3–72.9; I2: 91.8%) after EA-ERCP, 98% (95%CI: 96.5–99.6; I2: 0%) and 97.9% (95%CI: 96.3–99.4) after EDGE, and 98.6% (95%CI: 97.9–99.2; I2: 0%) and 98.5% (95%CI: 97.8–99.2; I2: 0%) after LA-ERCP, respectively. The noticed high heterogeneity in EA-ERCP results probably reflects the larger number of included studies, the different enteroscopy modalities and the variety of surgical interventions. Comparisons revealed the superiority of LA-ERCP and EDGE over EA-ERCP (p ≤ 0.001) for all success-related outcomes, though LA-ERCP and EDGE were comparable (p ≥ 0.43). ERCP with spiral-enteroscope was inferior to balloon-enteroscope, while the type of the balloon-enteroscope did not affect the results. Most adverse events were recorded after LA-ERCP [15.1% (95%CI: 9.40–20.8); I2: 87.1%], and EDGE [13.1% (95%CI: 7.50–18.8); I2: 48.2%], significantly differing from EA-ERCP [5.7% (95%CI: 4.50–6.80); p ≤ 0.04; I2: 64.2%]. Conclusions: LA-ERCP and EDGE were associated with higher technical, cannulation, and therapeutic success compared to EA-ERCP, though accompanied with more adverse events.

Laparoscopy-Assisted Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: New Insight in Management of Iatrogenic Bile Duct Injury

Bile duct injury (BDI) is a severe and sometimes life-threatening complication of cholecystectomy. Several series have described a 0.5% to 0.6% incidence of BDI during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. We received an emergency call from the operating theater by the surgery team to assess an iatrogenic BDI in a 58-year-old man with cirrhosis who presented for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. After many trials by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) the guide wire passed to the peritoneal cavity and failed to pass proximally. Laparoscopy resumed, and the surgeon tried to pass the flexible guide wire proximally unsuccessfully. Then, a decision to hold the sphincterotome by laparoscopy and passing it proximally in harmony with ERCP was taken, which was successful. A regular ERCP with 10F plastic stent insertion was carried out, and the perforation was secured by the inserted stent without any further surgical intervention. Laparoscopy-assisted ERCP may give new insights into the immediate repair of iatrogenic bile duct injuries.

Management of choledocholithiasis after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a systematic review and pooled proportion meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Several therapeutic modalities have been proposed for the management of choledocholithiasis (CDL) following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), yet debate exists regarding the optimal management. The purpose of our study was to review the current literature to compare the efficacy of various techniques in the management of CDL post-RYGB.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of multiple databases was conducted. Studies reporting on the management of CDL in patients post-RYGB and including at least 5 patients were eligible for inclusion. The primary outcome was successful stone clearance. Secondary outcomes included procedure duration, length of hospital stay, and adverse events.

RESULTS

Of 3259 identified studies, 53 studies involving 857 patients were included in the final analysis. The mean age was 54.4 years (SD 7.05), 78.8% were female (SD 13.6%), and the average BMI was 30.8 kg/m2 (SD 6.85). Procedures described included laparoscopy-assisted ERCP (LAERCP), balloon-assisted enteroscopy (BAE), ultrasound-directed transgastric ERCP (EDGE), laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE), EUS-guided intra-hepatic puncture with antegrade clearance (EGHAC), percutaneous trans-hepatic biliary drainage (PTHBD), and rendezvous guidewire-associated (RGA) ERCP. High rates of successful stone clearance were observed with LAERCP (1.00; 95% CI 0.99-1.00; p = 0.47), EDGE (0.97; 95% CI 0.9-1.00; p = 0.54), IGS ERCP (1.00; 95% CI 0.87-1.00), PTHBD (1.0; 95% CI 0.96-1.00), and LCBDE (0.99; 95% CI 0.93-1.00, p < 0.001). Lower rates of stone clearance were observed with BAE (61.5%; 95%CI 44.3-76.3, p = 0.188) and EGHAC (74.0%; 95% CI 42.9-91.5, p = 0.124). Relative to EDGE, LAERCP had a longer procedure duration (133.1 vs. 67.4 min) but lower complication rates (12.8% vs. 24.3%).

CONCLUSION

LAERCP and EDGE had high rates of success in the management of CDL post-RYGB. LAERCP had fewer complications but was associated with longer procedure times. BAE had lower success rates than both LAERCP and EDGE.

Complications of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography in Patients With Previous Bariatric Surgery: A National Inpatient Sample Analysis, 2007-2013

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery (BS) has been proven to be effective in the treatment of obesity and weight-related diseases, but the anatomic changes after BS make endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) technically challenging. This study aims to assess the safety and clinical outcomes of ERCP in patients with previous BS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample from 2007 to 2013 was queried for hospitalizations of adults over 18 years of age with procedure diagnoses of ERCP. Those with prior BS were selected as cases and those without BS as controls. Case-control matching at a ratio of 1 case to 2 controls was performed based on sex, age, race, comorbidities, and obesity. The primary outcomes were inpatient mortality and ERCP-related complications. Multivariate regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors associated to the primary outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 1,068,862 weighted hospitalizations with ERCP procedure codes were identified. Of these, 6689 with BS were selected as cases, and 13,246 were matched as controls. The reason for hospital admission was most often biliary stone disease (60.7% vs. 55.5%), followed by malignancy (3.5% vs. 12.1%) and cholangitis (7.7% vs. 4.5%) with and without BS, P<0.05. The BS group had lower rates of post-ERCP pancreatitis (0.1% vs. 1.3%), cholecystitis (0.1% vs. 0.3%), bleeding (1.0% vs. 1.4%), and inpatient mortality (0.2% vs. 0.5%), but had higher rates of cholangitis (5.0% vs. 3.7%) and systemic infections (6.2% vs. 4.8%), all P<0.05.

CONCLUSIONS

BS group had lower post-ERCP pancreatitis, cholecystitis and bleeding while had more cholangitis, and systemic infection compared with those without BS. Also, BS was independently associated with reduced inpatient mortality after adjusted for age, race, and comorbidity.

Transcystic Removal of Common Bile Duct Stones in Surgically Altered Anatomy (Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass)

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in patients with surgically altered anatomy can be technically challenging. Various techniques have been described; however, the technical success rate depends on the type of reconstruction, length of the afferent limb, access to the papilla, availability of accessories, and adequate expertise. We describe successful transcystic removal of common bile duct stones in a patient with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass using cholangioscope and SpyGlass retrieval device at the time of cholecystectomy.

Review of ERCP Techniques in Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Patients: Highlight on the Novel EUS-Directed Transgastric ERCP (EGDE) Technique

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Hepatobiliary complications are common in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) patients. Despite development of multiple surgical and endoscopic access techniques over the years, ERCP using standard duodenoscope remains challenging in these patients due to the altered anatomy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Limited success with enteroscope-assisted and laparoscope-assisted ERCP led to the evolution of the novel EUS-directed transgastric ERCP (EDGE) procedure, with variations of this technique termed as Gastric Access Temporary for Endoscopy (GATE), EUS-guided TransGastric ERCP (EUS-TG-ERCP), EUS-guided GastroGastrostomy-assisted ERCP (EUS-GG-ERCP), and EUS-directed transgastric intervention (EDGI). EDGE has high technical (100%) and clinical success rates (60-100%), lower adverse event rate (1.5-7.6%), and up to 20% access stent migration rate; without any significant weight changes. EDGE has significantly shorter procedure time (73vs184min), post-procedural hospital stays (0.8vs2.65 days) and is more cost effective compared to other modalities. EDGE technique addresses the challenges of RYGB anatomy as a minimally invasive, clinically successful, fully endoscopic, and cost-effective option. We present a literature review of the EDGE technique from its inception to current, in addition to reviewing other access techniques, their advantages, disadvantages and outcomes.

Intragastric Single-Port Surgery: An Innovative and Multipurpose Technique for the Therapy of Upper Digestive Tract Lesions

Background: Endoscopic treatment can represent a technical challenge for several special situations, such as resecting gastric tumors with larger size or in unfavorable sites and performing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). This study aims to describe an innovative and multipurpose technique, intragastric single-port surgery (IGS), which can be applied for abovementioned special situations and for assessing its safety, feasibility, and efficacy. Methods: IGS technique was performed through a 2-3 cm skin incision, where the stomach wall is exteriorized and fixed to the skin. The single-port device is inserted and intragastric access is gained for laparoscopic or endoscopic instruments. Three purposes of IGS were performed: (1). gastric intraluminal lesions resection; (2). to perform ERCP after RYGB; and (3). revision of pancreaticogastric anastomosis after pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy. Results: IGS was performed successfully in 20 patients. Ten patients underwent gastric intraluminal lesion resection, mostly for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (n = 7, 70%); all pathological specimens were with negative margin, mean operation time was 102.3 ± 43.5 minutes, and mean postoperative hospital stay was 4.6 ± 1.5 days. Nine patients underwent ERCP after RYGB, cleaning of the bile duct was successful in all patients (100%), and mean operation time and mean postoperative hospital stay were 140.6 ± 46.3 minutes and 4.4 ± 2.6 days, respectively. One patient underwent pancreaticogastric anastomosis revision. There were no mortalities in our series. Conclusions: IGS is a safe, feasible, and effective technique for gastric intraluminal lesion resection and for performing ERCP after RYGB, while it has the potential for other future applications.

Bridged one-anastomosis gastric bypass: technique and preliminary results

PURPOSE

One-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) is an established bariatric procedure performed worldwide. We developed a modification of OAGB leaving a bridge at the cranial 2 cm of the fundus as a gastro-gastric fistula to allow for endoscopic access to the bypassed stomach. We present the preliminary results of 44 patients who underwent this technique in our hospital.

METHODS

We analyzed, retrospectively, data collected prospectively on 44 patients who underwent our bridged one-anastomosis gastric bypass (BOAGB) procedure between September, 2018 and November, 2020.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 45.2 ± 9.3 years (range 20-66 years). The mean preoperative body mass index (BMI), weight, and HbA1c values were 41.5 ± 6.4 kg/m² (range 35-59), 116 ± 22.7 kg, and 8.2 ± 2.1%, respectively. After a median follow-up period of 18 months (11-26 months), the mean postoperative BMI was 28.4 ± 3.2 kg/m² (range 21-38), the mean total weight loss was 35.8 ± 13.5 kg (range 20-80 kg), and the mean percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) and the percentage of total weight loss (%TWL) were 79.8 ± 16.1% (range 47-109) and 30.6 ± 6.9% (range 19-48), respectively. The mean postoperative HbA1c level was 6.3 ± 0.9%. There were two early complications (stenosis and bleeding) and one late complication (marginal ulcer).

CONCLUSION

Patients who underwent BOAGB lost weight similarly to those who underwent OABG as reported in the literature, without an apparent increase in complications related to the technique. Randomized studies with longer term follow-up are needed.

Safety and efficacy of laparoscopic common bile duct exploration for the patients with difficult biliary stones: 8 years of experiences at a single institution and literature review

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) has gained wide popularity for the treatment of choledocholithiasis. However, it remains unclear whether LCBDE is a better alternative option for the patients with difficult biliary stones. Thus, the aim of the present study was to explore the safety and efficacy of LCBDE for these patients by retrospectively analyzing our data and combing with literature review.

METHODS

Between September 2011 and February 2019, 1064 consecutive patients who underwent LCBDE at Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital were reviewed. The clinical data of patients with difficult biliary stones were selected and retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Of these patients, 334 cases were confirmed with difficult biliary stones, and the overall complete stone clearance rate was 98.8% (330/334). 34 cases (10.2%) were performed with laser lithotripsy. A total of 296 patients (88.6%) underwent primary closure of common bile duct, and T-tube drainage was indwelled in 38 patients (11.4%). No bile duct injury, bleeding, perforation and surgery-related deaths were observed. The overall morbidity rate was 6.6%. 16 cases (4.8%) occurred in bile leakage with primary closure procedure, and all of them were managed successfully with conservative therapy. The median follow-up period was 9 months with stone recurrence occurring in 9 patients (2.7%). There was no evidence of bile duct stricture in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study suggests that LCBED is a considerable safe and effective option for the patients with difficult biliary stones. A randomized clinical trial is needed to further evaluate the benefit of LCBDE in this subgroup.

After you Roux, what do you do? A systematic review of most successful advanced assisted ERCP techniques in patients with various altered upper gastrointestinal surgical anatomical reconstructions with particular focus on RYGB (last 10 years)

Access to the Common Bile Duct in patients with surgically altered UGI anatomy such as RYGB is exceptionally challenging. Previously, these patients could only be treated by open surgery; however, multiple new advanced assisted ERCP techniques such as EDGE, LA-ERCP, and DEA-ERCP have now been developed and indeed successfully used to treat these patients. Despite growing experience, these techniques have yet to become part of our mainstream practice and many clinicians remain unfamiliar or even unaware of them; as a result, they are unfortunately often overlooked. We conducted this systematic review to try and shed more light on them and understand which of these techniques resulted in the best patient outcomes. We conducted a systematic review of PubMed database publications between December 2008 and December 2018. Keyword variants of "EDGE, Enteroscopy-assisted & laparoscopy-assisted ERCP" and "altered surgical anatomy" were combined to identify relevant papers for inclusion. We identified 34 studies, comprising a total of 1848 advanced assisted ERCPs in patients with altered UGI anatomy from 12 different countries. These papers were critically appraised, summarised, and presented in table format. EDGE and LA-ERCP were associated with both the highest overall combined CBD cannulation rates (99.3% for both vs 74.6% for DEA-ERCP) and ERCP interventional success (98.3% for EDGE vs 97.4% for LA-ERCP and 67.6% for DEA-ERCP). Advanced ERCP is associated with excellent success rates and a higher safety profile than surgery; however, patient selection and identification of the exact surgical anatomy are key.

Laparoscopy-assisted versus enteroscopy-assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a meta-analysis

Background and study aims  Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is technically challenging in patients with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) anatomy, which is increasing in frequency given the rise of obesity. Laparoscopy-assisted ERCP (LA-ERCP) and enteroscopy-assisted ERCP (EA-ERCP) are distinct approaches with their respective strengths and weaknesses. We conducted a meta-analysis comparing the procedural time, rates of success and adverse events of each method. Patients and methods  A search of PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane library was performed from inception to October 2018 for studies reporting outcomes of LA or EA-ERCP in patients with RYGB anatomy. Studies using single, double, 'short' double-balloon or spiral enteroscopy were included in the EA-ERCP arm. Outcomes of interest included procedural time, papilla identification, papilla cannulation, therapeutic success and adverse events. Therapeutic success was defined as successful completion of the originally intended diagnostic or therapeutic indication for ERCP. Results  A total of 3859 studies were initially identified using our search strategy, of which 26 studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled rate of therapeutic success was significantly higher in LA-ERCP (97.9 %; 95 % CI: 96.7-98.7 %) with little heterogeneity (I ²  = 0.0 %) when compared to EA-ERCP (73.2 %; 95 % CI: 62.5-82.6 %) with significant heterogeneity (I ² : 80.2 %). Conversely, the pooled rate of adverse events was significantly higher in LA-ERCP (19.0 %; 95 % CI: 12.6-26.4 %) when compared to EA-ERCP (6.5 %; 95% CI: 3.9-9.6 %). The pooled mean procedure time for LA-ERCP was 158.4 minutes (SD ± 20) which was also higher than the mean pooled procedure time for EA-ERCP at 100.5 minutes (SD ± 19.2). Conclusions  LA-ERCP is significantly more effective than EA-ERCP in patients with RYGB but is associated with a higher rate of adverse events and longer procedural time.

EDGE in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: How does it compare to laparoscopy-assisted and balloon enteroscopy ERCP: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and study aims  Endoscopic ultrasound-directed transgastric ERCP (EDGE) is a new endoscopic procedure to perform ERCP in Roux-en-y gastric bypass (RYGB) patients. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate technical success, clinical success and adverse effects of EDGE and compare it to laparoscopic ERCP (LA-ERCP) and balloon ERCP (BE-ERCP). Patients and methods  We conducted a comprehensive search of several databases and conference proceedings including PubMed, EMBASE, Google-Scholar, LILACS, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases to identify studies reporting on EDGE, LA-ERCP, and BE-ERCP. The primary outcome was to evaluate technical and clinical success of all three procedures and the secondary analysis focused on calculating the pooled rate of all adverse events (AEs), along with the commonly reported AE subtypes. Results  Twenty-four studies on 1268 patients were included in our analysis with the majority of the population being males with mean age 53.72 years. Pooled rates of technical and clinical success with EDGE wer 95.5 % and 95.9 %, with LA-ERCP were 95.3 % and 92.9 % and were BE-ERCP were 71.4 % and 58.7 %, respectively. Pooled rates of all AEs with EDGE were 21.9 %, with LA-ERCP 17.4 % and with BE-ERCP 8.4 %. Stent migration was the most common AE with EDGE with 13.3 % followed by bleeding with 6.6 %. Conclusion  Our meta-analysis demonstrated that the technical and clinical success of EDGE procedure is better than BE-ERCP and comparable to that of LA-ERCP in RYGB patients. EDGE also has a similar safety profile as compared to LA-ERCP but has higher AE rate as compared to BE-ERCP.

Pancreatic Head Resection Following Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: Operative Considerations and Outcomes

PURPOSE

This study aimed to identify optimal management decisions for surgeons preforming pancreatic head resection on patients with altered anatomy due to a previous Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB).

METHODS

A multi-national (4), multi-center (28) collaborative of 55 pancreatic surgeons who have performed pancreatoduodenectomy or total pancreatectomy following RYGB for obesity (2005-2018) was created. Demographics, operative details, and perioperative outcomes from this cohort were analyzed and compared in a propensity-score matched analysis with a multi-center cohort of 5533 pancreatoduodenectomies without prior RYGB.

RESULTS

Ninety-six patients with a previous RYGB undergoing pancreatic head resection were assembled. Pathologic indications between the RYGB and normal anatomy cohorts did not differ. Propensity score matching of RYGB vs. patients with unaltered anatomy demonstrated no differences in major postoperative outcomes. In total 20 distinct reconstructions were employed (of 37 potential options); the three most frequent reconstructions accounted for 52.1%, and none demonstrated superior outcomes. There were no differences in outcomes observed between original biliopancreatic limb use (66.7%) and those where a secondary Roux limb was created for biliopancreatic reconstruction. Remnant stomachs were removed in 54.7% of cases, with no outcome differences between resected and retained stomachs. Venting gastrostomy tubes were used in 36.2% of retained stomachs without obvious outcome benefits. Jejunostomy tubes were used infrequently (11.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

Pancreatic head resection after RYGB is an infrequently encountered, unique and challenging scenario for any given surgeon. These patients do not appear to suffer higher morbidity than those with unaltered anatomy. Various technical reconstructive options do not appear to confer distinct benefits.

Outcomes of laparoscopic-assisted ERCP in gastric bypass patients at a community hospital center

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a prevalent issue in today's society, increasing the number of gastric weight loss surgeries (Bowman et al. in Surg Endosc. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00464-016-4746-8 , 2016; Choi et al. in Surg Endosc. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00464-013-2850-6 , 2013; Paranandi et al. in Frontline Gastroenterol. https://doi.org/10.1136/flgastro-2015-100556 , 2015; Richardson et al. in http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/sesc/tas , 2012). This presents an anatomical challenge to biliary disease requiring endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) as the traditional is technically difficult, requiring a longer endoscope with a reported success rate of less than 70% (Roberts et al. in https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3016032/ , 2008). A solution is laparoscopic-assisted ERCP (LA-ERCP) via gastrostomy. We present our experience with LA-ERCP at our teaching community hospital in a large cohort of patients.

METHODS

An IRB-approved retrospective chart review was performed on patients with prior gastric bypass surgery who underwent LA-ERCP from April 2008 to April 2016. The procedure involved two bariatric surgeons and one gastroenterologist. The gastric remnant was secured to the abdominal wall with a purse-string suture and transfascial stay sutures. After gastrostomy creation of a duodenoscope was inserted to perform ERCP. Biliary sphincterotomy, dilation, and stone removal were performed as indicated. We observed the incidence of postoperative outcomes, including acute pancreatitis, reoperation, post-procedure infection, pain control, hospital readmission, and bile leak.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients met inclusion criteria. The majority of indications for LA-ERCP was choledocholithiasis (16/32). The remainder of cases included indications such as abnormal LFTs with biliary dilation (11/32), acute pancreatitis (2/32), cholangitis (2/32), and bile leak (1/32). LA-ERCP was successfully performed in all patients. Biliary sphincterotomy and stone extraction were performed on 31/32 patients. One patient underwent sphincterotomy and stent placement for bile leak after recent laparoscopic cholecystectomy. One patient developed acute pancreatitis with elevated pancreatic enzymes which resolved on POD2. The median length of stay was 2 days.

CONCLUSION

LA-ERCP is a safe and feasible alternative to open surgery and can be safely implemented at community hospitals with adequately trained providers. Our large study proves that in this minimally invasive era, LA-ERCP provides gastric bypass patients a safe alternative with less pain and increased satisfaction.

Comparison between Enteroscopy-Based and Laparoscopy-Assisted ERCP for Accessing the Biliary Tree in Patients with Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Although balloon-assisted enteroscopy-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (BAE-ERCP) is a well-described means of accessing the duodenal papilla in patients with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), it is associated with modest clinical success rates. Laparoscopy-assisted ERCP (LA-ERCP)-performed by advancing a standard duodenoscope through a gastrostomy into the excluded stomach and duodenum-has emerged as a viable alternative to BAE-ERCP, with apparently higher success rates. In this systematic review, we compare LA-ERCP with enteroscopy-based techniques in post-RYGB patients, including 22 case series that provided data on papilla identification, papilla cannulation, and complications. We found that LA-ERCP was superior to the enteroscopy-based techniques in its capacity to reach the duodenal papilla, although complication rates were lower for the latter. Comparative studies are needed in order to corroborate our findings.

Trans-Gastric ERCP After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Trans-oral endoscopic access to the pancreaticobiliary system is challenging after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Trans-gastric ERCP (TG-ERCP) has emerged as a viable option to manage patients with symptomatic post-RYBG choledocolithiasis. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the outcomes of TG-ERCP to better define the risk-benefit ratio of this procedure and to guide clinical decision-making.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted to identify all reports on ERCP after RYGB. Pubmed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases were thoroughly consulted matching the terms "ERCP" AND "gastric bypass." Pooled prevalence of ERCP success rate, ERCP-related morbidity, post-procedural infectious complications, and overall morbidity were calculated using Freeman-Tukey double arcsine transformation and DerSimonian-Laird estimator in random effect meta-analysis. Heterogeneity among studies was evaluated using I²-index and Cochrane Q test. Meta-regression was used to address the effect of potential confounders.

RESULTS

Thirteen papers published between 2009 and 2017 matched the inclusion criteria. Eight hundred fifty patients undergoing 931 procedures were included. The most common clinical indications for TG-ERCP were biliary (90%) and pancreatic (10%). The majority of patients underwent an initial laparoscopic approach (90%). Same-day ERCP was successfully achieved in 703 cases (75.5%). Pooled prevalence of ERCP success rate, ERCP-related morbidity, post-procedural infectious complications, and overall morbidity were 99% (95% CI = 98-100%), 3.1% (95% CI = 1.0-5.8%), 3.4% (95% CI = 1.7-5.5%), and 14.2% (95% CI = 8.5-20.8%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

TG-ERCP is a safe and effective therapeutic option in patients with symptomatic post-RYGB choledocolithiasis.

Current status of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in patients with surgically altered anatomy

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in patients with surgically altered anatomy must be performed by a highly experienced endoscopist. The challenges are accessing the afferent limb in different types of reconstruction, cannulating a papilla with a reverse orientation, and performing therapeutic interventions with uncommon endoscopic accessories. The development of endoscopic techniques has led to higher success rates in this group of patients. Device-assisted ERCP is the endoscopic procedure of choice for high success rates in short-limb reconstruction; however, these success rate is lower in long-limb reconstruction. ERCP assisted by endoscopic ultrasonography is now popular because it can be performed independent of the limb length; however, it must be performed by a highly experienced and skilled endoscopist. Stent deployment and small stone removal can be performed immediately after ERCP assisted by endoscopic ultrasonography, but the second session is needed for other difficult procedures such as cholangioscopy-guided electrohydraulic lithotripsy. Laparoscopic-assisted ERCP has an almost 100% success rate in long-limb reconstruction because of the use of a conventional side-view duodenoscope, which is compatible with standard accessories. This requires cooperation between the surgeon and endoscopist and is suitable in urgent situations requiring concomitant cholecystectomy. This review focuses on the advantages, disadvantages, and outcomes of various procedures that are suitable in different situations and reconstruction types. Emerging new techniques and their outcomes are also discussed.

The application of a vascular closure device for closing a gastrostomy opening used for procedural access

OBJECTIVE

To study the feasibility of applying the Perclose ProGlide vascular closure device (PPVCD) in vitro for closing a gastrostomy opening for procedural access in the swine stomach in order to prevent peritoneal leakage.

METHODS

The study included four experimental groups: one manual suture (n = 10), two manual sutures (n = 10), one PPVCD suture (n = 10), and two PPVCD sutures (n = 5). In the two PPVCD sutures group, the "pre-close" technique was used. The leak pressure was measured, and statistical analysis was conducted to compare the leak pressures among the experimental groups.

RESULTS

The gastrostomy openings were successfully closed in all experimental groups. The median (range) values of leak pressure (mmHg) for each experimental group were as follows: one manual suture, 86.0 (75.0-110.0); two manual sutures, 98.5 (44.0-130.0); one PPVCD suture, 96.5 (56.0-119.0); and two PPVCD sutures, 98.0 (66.0-104.0). The Mann-Whitney U test revealed no statistically significant difference in leak pressure between the manual (n = 20) and PPVCD (n = 15) suture groups. The Kruskal-Wallis test revealed no statistically significant difference in leak pressure among the four experimental groups. The Bonferroni post hoc test also revealed no statistically significant difference in the pairwise comparisons among the groups.

CONCLUSION

Application of PPVCD is feasible for the closure of gastrostomy openings in an animal model and is as effective as a manual suture.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

In our in vitro study, percutaneous closure of gastrostomy opening using PPVCD was possible; animal survival studies and development of specific devices are needed before clinical application.

Endoscopic Papillary Large Balloon Dilation Versus Endoscopic Sphincterotomy for Treatment of Bile Duct Stones

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the current literature focusing on the indications, efficacy, and safety of endoscopic papillary balloon dilation (EPBD) and endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation (EPLBD) with or without endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) in the treatment of bile duct stones. • EPBD without EST is associated with a higher risk of post-procedural pancreatitis and lower rate of stone clearance than EST alone. • EPBD without EST should be at least 2 min in duration, and placement of a pancreatic stent and other measures to reduce pancreatitis risk should be considered. • EPBD without EST is most useful to reduce risk of bleeding in patients with coagulopathy. • EPLBD combined with EST can be used as an alternative or adjunct to mechanical lithotripsy in the removal of large or difficult bile duct stones. • EPLBD combined with EST results in fewer complications than EST alone for removal of bile duct stones.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass patients

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery remains a popular surgical intervention worldwide to treat morbid obesity. It is effective and relatively safe. However, one of the results related to bariatric surgery-induced rapid weight loss is the development of biliary stones. Endoscopic removal of common bile duct stones is challenging in patients with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass reconstruction. The current review highlights the different endoscopic approaches of the biliopancreatic system to perform endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in patients with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. A treatment algorithm is provided based on clinical indications.

First case report of bile leak from the duct of Luschka in a patient with mini-gastric bypass: The challenge of management

Introduction

The incidence of Bile duct injury after laparoscopic cholecystectomy approaches 0.11%–1.4%. Ducts of Luschka are the second most common site of bile leaks. The rarity of these ducts with cases of anatomical alterations in the gastrointestinal tract such as mini-gastric bypass makes the management a challenging option.

Presentation of case

Hereby we present a unique case of 28 year old female patient with mini-gastric bypass who had done uneventful cholecystectomy. Day 3 postoperatively patient complained of diffuse abdominal pain. Computed tomography showed free fluid in the abdomen. Liver enzymes were normal. Relaparoscopy showed leaking bile duct of Luschka, which was closed by surgical clips and drains left in the spaces. However bile leak continued for 4 weeks then stopped. Patient did well after all.

Discussion

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with sphincterotomy played a crucial role for diagnosis and treatment of bile leaks with success rate near 94%. However no data were available using this method in a patient with Mini-gastric bypass procedure. Many authors have argued the role of relaparoscopy, but it is still an important way for adequate drainage and control of bile leakage. The only significant factor in determining clinical outcome in cases of non-surgical management is the type of bile duct injury.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of bile leak from duct of Luschka after mini-gastric bypass treated successfully with relaparoscopy and drainage. Herein we will discuss all the available options of treatment and the challenge of it.

•

The combination of Duct of Luschka in a patient with mini-gastric bypass is unique in the literature.

•

The challenge of management especially endoscopic one puts a great pressure on both surgeons and gastroenterologists.

•

NO single data available in the literature in doing ERCP by any method in a patient with mini-gastric bypass.

An international, multicenter, comparative trial of EUS-guided gastrogastrostomy-assisted ERCP versus enteroscopy-assisted ERCP in patients with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass anatomy

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

ERCP is challenging in patients with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) anatomy. EUS-guided gastrogastrostomy (GG) creation is a promising novel technique to access the excluded stomach to facilitate conventional ERCP. We aimed to compare procedural outcomes and adverse events (AEs) between EUS-guided GG-assisted ERCP (EUS-GG-ERCP) and enteroscopy-assisted ERCP (e-ERCP) in patients with RYGB.

METHODS

Patients with RYGB anatomy who underwent EUS-GG-ERCP or e-ERCP between 2014 and 2016 at 5 tertiary centers were included. The primary outcome was technical success of ERCP, defined as successful cannulation of the selected duct with successful intervention as intended. Secondary outcomes included total procedural time (in the EUS-GG group, total procedural time included EUS-GG creation plus ERCP procedure time), length of hospital stay, and rate/severity of AEs graded according to the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy lexicon.

RESULTS

A total of 60 patients (mean age, 57.2 ± 13.2; 75% women) were included, of whom 30 (50%) underwent EUS-GG-ERCP and 30 (50%) underwent e-ERCP (double-balloon enteroscope ERCP, 19; single-balloon enteroscope ERCP, 11). The technical success rate was significantly higher in the EUS-GG-ERCP versus the e-ERCP group (100% vs 60.0%, P < .001). Total procedure time was significantly shorter in patients who underwent EUS-GG-ERCP (49.8 minutes vs 90.7 minutes, P < .001). Postprocedure median length of hospitalization was shorter in the EUS-GG group (1 vs 10.5 days, P = .02). Rate of AEs was similar in both groups (10% vs 6.7%, P = 1).

CONCLUSIONS

EUS-GG-ERCP may be superior to e-ERCP in patients with RYGB anatomy in terms of a higher technical success and shorter procedural times and offers a similar safety profile.

Multicenter evaluation of the clinical utility of laparoscopy-assisted ERCP in patients with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The obesity epidemic has led to increased use of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). These patients have an increased incidence of pancreaticobiliary diseases, yet standard ERCP is not possible because of surgically altered gastroduodenal anatomy. Laparoscopy-assisted ERCP (LA-ERCP) has been proposed as an option, but supporting data are derived from single-center small case series. Therefore, we conducted a large multicenter study to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and outcomes of LA-ERCP.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study of adult patients with RYGB who underwent LA-ERCP in 34 centers. Data on demographics, indications, procedure success, and adverse events were collected. Procedure success was defined when all the following were achieved: reaching the papilla, cannulating the desired duct, and providing endoscopic therapy as clinically indicated.

RESULTS

A total of 579 patients (median age, 51; 84% women) were included. Indication for LA-ERCP was biliary in 89%, pancreatic in 8%, and both in 3%. Procedure success was achieved in 98%. Median total procedure time was 152 minutes (interquartile range [IQR], 109-210), with a median ERCP time of 40 minutes (IQR, 28-56). Median hospital stay was 2 days (IQR, 1-3). Adverse events were 18% (laparoscopy related, 10%; ERCP related, 7%; both, 1%) with the clear majority (92%) classified as mild/moderate, whereas 8% were severe and 1 death occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Our large multicenter study indicates that LA-ERCP in patients with RYGB is feasible with a high procedure success rate comparable with that of standard ERCP in patients with normal anatomy. The ERCP-related adverse events rate is comparable with conventional ERCP, but the overall adverse event rate was higher because of the added laparoscopy-related events.

Endoscopic Management of Difficult Bile Duct Stones

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In 10-15% of the cases, conventional methods for removing bile duct stones by ERCP/balloon-basket extraction fail. The purpose of this review is to describe endoscopic techniques in managing these "difficult bile duct stones."

RECENT FINDINGS

Endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation with balloon extraction ± mechanical lithotripsy is the initial approach used to retrieve large bile duct stones. With advent of digital cholangioscopy, electrohydraulic and laser lithotripsy are gaining popularity. Enteroscopy-assisted or laparoscopic-assisted approaches can be used for those with gastric bypass anatomy. Difficulties in removing bile duct stones can be related to stone-related factors such as the size and location of the stone or to altered anatomy such as stricture in the bile duct or Roux-en-Y anatomy. Several endoscopy approaches and techniques have described in the recent past that have greatly enhanced our ability to remove these "difficult" bile duct stones.

Choledocholithiasis after Bariatric Surgery-More than a Stone's Throw to Reach?

BACKGROUND

Gallstone disease is common after bariatric surgery, and patients with bile duct stones in this cohort can be difficult to treat, due to the altered anatomy. This review aims to analyse the various management options available for choledocholithiasis in post-bariatric surgery patients.

METHODS

A literature search of PubMed, Medline and Cochrane library databases was carried out for studies on this subject, between January 1970 and March 2017. After initial screening and further full text review, suitable studies were identified after applying the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine studies were identified and analysed. Overtube-assisted endoscopy appears to be a popular technique, and 10 studies employing this technique were identified. Though there are minor variations between the three different types of overtube endoscopy, the success rate for ERCP with this approach is between 60 and 70%. Studies using a combination of radiological and endoscopic techniques report a success rate of 60-70%, though the endoscopic ultrasound-guided technique has been reported to have higher success rates (90-100%). Surgery-assisted ERCP also appears to be widely reported and has a consistently high ERCP success rate (80-100%), with an added advantage of the option to perform a concomitant cholecystectomy. There are very few reports on using surgery as the sole option in this scenario.

CONCLUSION

Both overtube-assisted endoscopy and laparoscopy-assisted ERCP appear to be safe, with good success rates. The other methods may be suitable for selected patients and centres with specific interest in such techniques.

Laparoscopic-Assisted Transgastric ERCP: A Single-Institution Experience

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic-assisted transgastric endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (LAERCP) is used for treatment in patients after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), where transoral access to the biliary tree is not possible. We describe our technique and experience with this procedure.

METHODS

Electronic medical record search was performed from September 2012 to January 2016, identifying patients who underwent LAERCP per operative records. Charts were reviewed for demographic, clinical, and outcomes data.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients were identified. Average time since bypass was 6.9 years, and length of stay was 3.7 days. Five patients underwent simultaneous cholecystectomy. Eleven patients, or 43%, had cholecystectomy more than 2 years previously. ERCP with sphincterotomy was completed in 15 of 16 patients (94%). Our technique involves access to the bypassed stomach via a laparoscopically placed 15 mm port. We observed one major complication of post-ERCP necrotizing pancreatitis. No minor complications nor mortalities were seen in our series.

CONCLUSION

Biliary obstruction can occur many years after RYGB and cholecystectomy. Our findings suggest that RYGB patients may be at a higher risk of primary CBD stone formation. LAERCP is a reliable option for common bile duct (CBD) clearance; our technique of LAERCP is technically simple and associated with low complication rate, making it appealing to surgeons not trained in advanced laparoscopy.

Treatment of Common Bile Duct Stones in Gastric Bypass Patients with Laparoscopic Transgastric Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass excludes the biliary tree from traditional evaluation and treatment with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Due to the initial rapid weight loss, gastric bypass patients have an increased risk of developing gallstones in the gallbladder as well as in the common bile duct. Various techniques to access the biliary tree have been described. The techniques are characterised by complexity and varying results. The aim of the present study was to assess both feasibility and outcome of laparoscopic-assisted transgastric ERCP in patients with gastric bypass.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all laparoscopic transgastric ERCPs performed at Zealand University Hospital during the period January 2010 to January 2016. The main outcome was cannulation of the common bile duct. Secondary outcomes were length of hospital stay and surgical complications.

RESULTS

Thirty-one laparoscopic assisted transgastric ERCP procedures were performed in 29 patients. Indication was choledocholithiasis. All planned procedures were conducted with a 100% success in cannulation of the common bile duct. Median hospital stay was 2 days (range 1-22). Perforation of the wall of the gastric remnant occurred in two patients. The overall postoperative complication rate was 36%. Surgical complications were bleeding, haematoma and intra-abdominal abscesses.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic assisted transgastric ERCP is feasible, but there are several complications related to the procedure. Thus, until better alternative treatments are developed, it is recommended that the procedure should be performed at centres with both high endoscopic and bariatric expertise.

Clinical Evaluation of Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy in Combination with Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Transhepatic Gallbladder Drainage for Acute Severe Biliary Pancreatitis: a Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

This study aimed to report the clinical efficacy of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) in combination with ultrasound-guided percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGD) (CRRT+PTGD) in the treatment of acute severe biliary pancreatitis (ASBP).

METHODS

Between January 2010 and January 2016, 40 cases of patients with ASBP who received routine CRRT (CRRT group) and 40 of those who received CRRT+PTGD (CRRT+PTGD group) at the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University (Qingdao, China) were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical (including abdominal pain remission time, gastrointestinal decompression time, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) hospital stay, respirator treatment time, and mortality rate), laboratory (white blood cells [WBC], platelet [PLT], procalcitonin [PCT], C-reactive protein [CRP], total bilirubin [TBIL], alanine aminotransferase [ALT], albumin [ALB], and blood lactic acid [Lac]) parameters, various critical disease scores, and incidence of complications after the treatment were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Compared with those in the routine CRRT group, patients in the CRRT+PTGD group exhibited significant remission of clinical symptoms (i.e. shorter abdominal pain remission time, gastrointestinal decompression time, respirator treatment time and ICU hospital stay) (all P<0.05), change of laboratory parameters (WBC, PLT, PCT, CRP, TBIL, ALT) (P<0.05), and improvement of various critical disease scores (P<0.05). Moreover, the variation of most of the above parameters after versus before the treatment was greater in the CRRT+PTGD group than in the CRRT group (all P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

CRRT in combination with PTGD is more effective in the treatment of ASBP than CRRT alone.

Endoscopic Evaluation and Treatment of Postoperative Bariatric Surgery Complications

The number of patients undergoing bariatric surgery continues to increase. The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) estimates the number of bariatric surgical procedures performed increased from 158 000 in 2011 to 190 000 in 2015. Concurrently, the incidence of postoperative complications specific to bariatric patients will inevitably increase as well. Endoscopic evaluation of postoperative bariatric patients and endoscopic interventions are rapidly evolving. We present a review of the postoperative anatomy of bariatric patients, what complications to expect, and treatment options.

Techniques for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in altered gastrointestinal anatomy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review highlights the current status of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) techniques in patients with altered anatomy. Endoscopic treatment of biliopancreatic disorders is particularly challenging in patients with altered anatomy.

RECENT FINDINGS

There are two main approaches to perform ERCP in patients with altered anatomy: the transluminal access and the transmural access. The transluminal access uses device-assisted enteroscopy (DAE) to reach and cannulate the biliopancreatic system. The transmural access is created using therapeutic endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) or surgery to reach the biliopancreatic system. Both techniques are under continuous development and optimization.

SUMMARY

Based on the currently available data in the literature, the transluminal access is the preferred first-line approach because of an acceptable success rate and an excellent safety profile, whereas the transmural approach may be more efficacious but with a higher complication rate, even in experienced hands. Due to the complexity of both techniques and the relative low number of procedures, patients with altered anatomy are best referred to high-volume centres where both techniques are available for optimal treatment.

Systematic review of transgastric ERCP in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass patients

Balloon-assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatoscopy (ERCP) in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) patients is technically challenging due to anatomic and accessory constraints, thus success rates are modest. Transgastric ERCP (TG-ERCP) offers a viable alternative. We aimed to systematically review the literature on TG-ERCP in RYGB patients to better define the technical approaches, success rates, and adverse events of this procedure. A computer-assisted search of the Embase and PubMed databases was performed to identify studies that focused on the techniques and clinical outcomes of TG-ERCP. Two investigators independently identified studies and abstracted relevant data. The literature search yielded 26 eligible studies comprising 509 TG-ERCP cases. Access to the excluded stomach to facilitate ERCP was achieved laparoscopically in 58% of reported cases, via open surgery (6% of reported cases), by antecedent placement of a percutaneous gastrostomy tube (33%), or with endoscopic ultrasound assistance (3%). Successful gastric access was reported in 100% of cases and successful ductal cannulation in 98.5%. Adverse events were reported in 14% of cases; 80% of these were related to gastrostomy creation and the rest were attributable to ERCP. Wound infections (n = 19, 3.7%) were the most common gastrostomy-related adverse event, and post-ERCP pancreatitis (n = 7, 1.4%) was the most common ERCP-related adverse event. No deaths were reported. Based on existing observational studies, TG-ERCP appears to be a safe and highly effective approach in patients with RYGB anatomy. Additional research and clinical experience are needed to more precisely define the risk-benefit ratio and optimal technique of TG-ERCP.

Endoluminal solutions to bariatric surgery complications: A review with a focus on technical aspects and results

Obesity is a growing problem in developed countries, and surgery is the most effective treatment in terms of weight loss and improving medical comorbidity in a high proportion of obese patients. Despite the advances in surgical techniques, some patients still develop acute and late postoperative complications, and an endoscopic evaluation is often required for diagnosis. Moreover, the high morbidity related to surgical reintervention, the important enhancement of endoscopic procedures and technological innovations introduced in endoscopic equipment have made the endoscopic approach a minimally-invasive alternative to surgery, and, in many cases, a suitable first-line treatment of bariatric surgery complications. There is now evidence in the literature supporting endoscopic management for some of these complications, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, stomal and marginal ulcers, stomal stenosis, leaks and fistulas or pancreatobiliary disorders. However, endoscopic treatment in this setting is not standardized, and there is no consensus on its optimal timing. In this article, we aim to analyze the secondary complications of the most expanded techniques of bariatric surgery with special emphasis on those where more solid evidence exists in favor of the endoscopic treatment. Based on a thorough review of the literature, we evaluated the performance and safety of different endoscopic options for every type of complication, highlighting the most recent innovations and including comparative data with surgical alternatives whenever feasible.