Is ERCP both effective and safe for common bile duct stones removal in octogenarians? A comparative study.

BACKGROUND

Some studies have investigated the efficacy and safety of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for octogenarians, but more and larger comparative studies are still needed.

METHODS

From January 2008 to June 2011, patients who underwent ERCP for common bile duct stone removal were included and divided into three groups, based upon their age. Basic information, medical records, and ERCP operation notes were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

868 patients were included, with 474 patients in Group 1 (<65 years old), 281 patients in Group 2 (≥65 years old and <80 years old), and 113 patients in Group 3 (≥80 years old). No difference was observed regarding the rate of complete stone removal and hospital stay among the three groups. Pancreatitis occurred more frequently in Group 1 than Group 3, and the incidence of pancreatitis in Group 2 had no statistical difference when compared with Group 1 or Group 3. The occurrence of biliary infection, hemorrhage, perforation, and other complications was not statistically different among the three groups. The mortality directly related to the ERCP procedure was zero (0).

CONCLUSIONS

ERCP is an effective and safe therapeutic method for stone removal in octogenarians, and age per se should not be a contraindication to endoscopic intervention.