Prevention of Pancreatic Reactions by Bolus Somatostatin Administration in Patients Undergoing Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-Pancreatography and Endoscopic Sphincterotomy

Authors:
  • VTV. Toledo
    V. Toledo
  • FMF. Mondelo
    F. Mondelo
  • JRJ. RodÉS
    J. RodÉS
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Abstract
Mild pancreatitis is a common complication of endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic sphincterotomy. Knowing that a bolus injection of natural somatostatin (SRIF) dramatically reduces pancreatic secretion, a study was conducted in 33 subjects undergoing invasive diagnostic procedures. A placebo (n = 16) or SRIF (n = 17; 4 micrograms/kg) were injected before cannulation. Enzymatic rise was observed in 16 (94%) subjects receiving placebo and in 8 (50%) injected previously with SRIF. In the former group 65% reported abdominal pain whereas only 19% had this complaint in the SRIF series. Results suggest that a bolus injection of SRIF may attenuate pancreatic irritation caused by diagnostic procedures or sphincterotomy.