Abstract
BACKGROUND: In the present study we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis regarding the initial management of perforations following endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). METHOD: A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. RESULT: In total, 10 comparative studies and 223 patients with post-ERCP perforations were included in the present study. In type I and II perforations, the success rate of initial surgical management was higher compared to the non-operative management (NOM) group (P=0.09 and P=0.02, respectively). There was no statistically significant difference in mortality rates or length of hospital stay between initial surgical and NOM management for any type of perforation. CONCLUSIONS: The current meta-analysis demonstrated the significance of the initial management of patients with post-ERCP perforations. Whether a surgical or an endoscopic approach is chosen, the patient should immediately be evaluated by an experienced surgeon or endoscopist.