The use of ERCP during pregnancy: is it safe and effective?

Hepatogastroenterology. 2014 Mar-Apr;61(130):296-8.

Abstract

Cholangitis and pancreatitis are the most gruesome complications that can be potentially fatal for the mother and fetus. The management of bile stone disease complicated with duct stones during pregnancy is challenging. Conservative treatment instead of surgery has always been advocated due to the increased risk for fetal compromise. Minimally invasive therapy with ERCP has been suggested as an effective therapeutic option for the management of pancreaticobiliary diseases during pregnancy. The main topics of discussion are the risks stemming from the endoscopic procedure itself, drugs used for sedation and the adverse effects of radiation exposure on the fetus. In this manuscript, we want to present the efficiency and feasibility of the ERCP for the management of hepatobiliary and pancreatic diseases in pregnancy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cholangiopancreatography, Endoscopic Retrograde / adverse effects
  • Cholangiopancreatography, Endoscopic Retrograde / methods*
  • Cholangitis / diagnostic imaging
  • Cholangitis / surgery*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives / administration & dosage
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives / adverse effects
  • Pancreatitis / diagnostic imaging
  • Pancreatitis / surgery*
  • Patient Safety
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / diagnostic imaging
  • Pregnancy Complications / surgery*
  • Radiation Injuries / prevention & control

Substances

  • Hypnotics and Sedatives