RESUMO
BACKGROUND/AIMS: Gallstone pancreatitis has showed higher mortality and morbidity rate as compared to other causes of pancreatitis, and the proper timing of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) is still controversial. But recent several trials reveals early ERCP/EST is safe procedure and can reduce mortality and complication rate in gallstone pancreatitis. METHODS: To assess the safety and effectiveness of early ERCP/EST, we perfomed ERCP and EST, if necessary, in 40 cases of acute gallstone pancreatitis. RESULTS: 1) Early ERCP group (in 72 hours) were 27 cases, delayed group were 13 cases, and 11 early EST group, 16 delayed EST group. No statistically significant difference was found between two groups in blood chemistry and the severity of pancreatitis according to Ranson's criteria, respectively. No remarkable complication due to ERCP or EST was noted, and the hospital days were shorter in early ERCP/EST group with statistical significance, 2) Duodenoscopic findings show 14 normal papillae, 20 papillary edema, hemorrhagic and lacerated papillae in 6 cases. CONCLUSION: In cases of gallstone pancreatitis, early ERCP and EST is considered as a safe and effective treatment modality.