Efficacy and factors affecting procedure results of short-type single-balloon enteroscopy–assisted ERCP for altered anatomy: a multicenter cohort in Japan

Background and Aims: Although single-balloon enteroscopy (SBE)-assisted or short-type SBE (short SBE)-assisted ERCP has been reported as useful in patients with surgically altered anatomy, most studies had small sample sizes or single-center designs. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and factors affecting the procedure results of short SBE–assisted ERCP in patients with surgically altered anatomy. Methods: This multicenter, retrospective study was conducted at 8 tertiary referral care centers in Japan. The data of patients who underwent ERCP-related procedures using short SBE between September 2011 and August 2019 at each facility were analyzed. Results: Overall, 1318 patients were included in this analysis. The enteroscopy (reaching the target site), cannulation, and total procedural success rates were 87.9% (95% confidence interval [CI], 86.1%-89.6%), 87.0% (95% CI, 84.9%-88.8%), and 74.9% (95% CI, 72.5%-77.2%), respectively. Adverse events occurred in 7.7% of patients (95% CI, 6.4%-9.3%). Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that age (≥75 years), Roux-en-Y reconstruction, pancreatic indication, and malignancy were factors affecting the total procedural failure. Conclusions: This large-scale study proved that short SBE–assisted ERCP in patients with surgically altered anatomy was effective. Moreover, it clarified factors affecting procedure results. Proficiency with alternative treatment techniques is required in difficult cases. (Clinical trial registration number: UMIN00004045.)