To Examine the Criteria for Ercp Under General Anesthesia, as Well as the Fundamental Disorders, Kind and Effectiveness of Ercp During General Anesthesia vs Conscious Sedation

Abstract

Introduction: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a technically challenging procedure which requires careful patient management under proper anaesthetic to guarantee safety and success.

Objective: To review indications for general anesthesia versus conscious sedation for ERCP, discuss underlying conditions, and compare types of ERCP.

Materials and Methods: This is a Retrospective Comparative Cohort Study conducted at the Department of Gastroenterology and Department of Anesthesiology, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad during six months period (October 2025 – March 2026). In all, 180 adult patients were included who underwent ERCP. SPSS version 27.0 was used for data analysis, and included demographic characteristics, indications, procedural outcomes, technical success, complications and recovery parameters.

Results: 102 (56.7%) patients were treated with conscious sedation and 78 (43.3%) under general anesthesia during ERCP. The technical success rate of general anesthesia was significantly higher (98.7% vs. 91.2%), especially in complex procedures, and conscious sedation had a significantly shorter recovery time.

Conclusion: Both anesthesia techniques are effective when appropriately selected. Conscious sedation is a safe and effective alternative to general anesthesia for less complex or lower-risk procedures, while general anesthesia is recommended for technically challenging ERCP and high-risk patients.