Efficacy of ERCP in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Idiopathic Recurrent Acute Pancreatitis: a Randomized Controlled Trial

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the use of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to diagnose and treat idiopathic recurrent acute pancreatitis (IRAP) in adults. IRAP is a condition where patients have repeated episodes of acute pancreatitis without a clear cause, even after routine examinations. This study aims to find out if ERCP can reduce the number of pancreatitis episodes and help identify the cause of IRAP, addressing a current lack of high-quality evidence on this treatment. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one group will receive ERCP treatment, which includes pancreatic sphincterotomy and placement of a small pancreatic stent. Indomethacin will be given rectally before the procedure for those without allergies. If the cause of pancreatitis is found during ERCP, appropriate endoscopic treatment will be performed. For participants without a clear cause, pancreatic sphincterotomy and stent placement will be done as a preventive measure. The other group will receive conservative treatment and health education. Follow-up visits will occur at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after enrollment. During the study, participants will be closely monitored for complications after ERCP, including abdominal X-rays two weeks later to check stent passage, with removal if necessary. The main outcome measured will be the recurrence rate of acute pancreatitis one year after enrollment. Secondary measures include the reduction in pancreatitis episodes, severity of episodes, quality of life, psychological condition, and how often ERCP helps diagnose IRAP. The study lasts for one year, with regular follow-up to assess these outcomes.

Efficacy of ERCP in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Idiopathic Recurrent Acute Pancreatitis