ANESTHESIA PRACTICE GUIDELINES FOR PATIENTS UNDERGOING ENDOSCOPIC RETROGRADE CHOLANGIOPANCREATOGRAPHY

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a common procedure used to diagnose and treat disorders of the biliary and pancreatic ductal systems. The number of procedures performed annually is rising. Endoscopists are challenged with determining the optimal sedation/anesthesia technique for each patient. ERCPs can be performed under conscious sedation, deep sedation, or general anesthesia. The choice of technique is based on the patient’s health status and patient/provider preference. An extensive literature review and expert consultation uncovered numerous safety concerns and complications encountered during ERCPs. In addition, several recommendations were found that have the potential to prevent adverse events, enhance patient safety, and improve efficiency