Response to “Is there a role for ERCP in the management of gallstone pancreatitis in children? A western pediatric surgery research consortium study” by Patwarthan et al

In brief

This correspondence critiques a large pediatric study examining ERCP's role in managing gallstone pancreatitis in children. The authors highlight the need for clearer definition of ERCP indications in pediatric acute pancreatitis cases, contributing to ongoing debate about endoscopic intervention timing and appropriateness in this population.

• Largest pediatric series examining ERCP role in gallstone pancreatitis, but lacks explicit indication criteria for the procedure.
• Study highlights need for standardized ERCP indication protocols in pediatric acute pancreatitis management.
• Critical gap identified: precise clinical triggers for ERCP intervention in children with gallstone pancreatitis remain undefined.

Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.