What is considered the most common complication of ERCP?

The most common complication of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is pancreatitis. This condition occurs when the pancreatic tissue becomes inflamed, which can happen due to the manipulation of the ducts and the introduction of contrast dye during the procedure. The incidence of post-ERCP pancreatitis varies among studies, but it is recognized as the leading complication associated with this intervention.

Understanding the nature of this complication is crucial, as it often presents within a few hours to days after the procedure with symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. This complication can range from mild self-limiting discomfort to severe pancreatitis requiring hospitalization and intensive care management.

While cholangitis, hemorrhage, and bowel perforation are indeed potential complications of ERCP, they occur less frequently than pancreatitis. Cholangitis typically arises from bile duct obstruction or infection but is less common than pancreatitis following ERCP. Hemorrhage, although serious, happens in a small percentage of cases, often related to vascular injury during the procedure. Bowel perforation is the rarest of these complications but can have serious consequences if it occurs.

This understanding of the risks associated with ERCP is essential for healthcare professionals when discussing the procedure