Endoscopy 2014; 46(11): 949-955
DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1377930
Original article
© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Competence development in ERCP: the learning curve of novice trainees

Vivian E. Ekkelenkamp
1   Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands
,
Arjun D. Koch
1   Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands
,
Erik A. J. Rauws
2   Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
,
Gerard J. J. M. Borsboom
3   Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands
,
Robert A. de Man
1   Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands
,
Ernst J. Kuipers
1   Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

submitted11 November 2013

accepted after revision18 May 2014

Publication Date:
10 September 2014 (online)

Background and study aim: Measures for competence in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) during training are poorly defined. Currently, various training and accreditation programs base verification of competence on performance of a minimum number of procedures. There is a general awareness that procedural competence certification should be based on objective performance criteria. Continuous self-assessment using a Rotterdam Assessment Form for ERCP (RAF-E) can provide insight into trainee performance. The study aim was to express development in ERCP competence as a learning curve.

Methods: ERCP trainees at a tertiary referral center in the Netherlands were invited to participate. Performed procedures were appraised using RAF-E. Indication for each ERCP and presence of a virgin papilla were documented. Complexity was graded on a 3-point scale. The primary outcome parameter was common bile duct (CBD) cannulation success rate. Success of the intended therapeutic interventions was additionally expressed as a learning curve.

Results: 15 trainees were included. 1541 ERCPs (624 procedures in native papillary anatomy) were assessed through RAF-E. Unassisted CBD cannulation success rate improved from 36 % at baseline to 85 % after 200 procedures (P < 0.001), and in 624 patients with a virgin papilla from 22 % at baseline to 68 % after 180 procedures (P < 0.001). Learning curves for therapeutic interventions showed significant improvements for successful sphincterotomy (P = 0.01) and stent placement (P < 0.001).

Conclusions: Learning curves are a valuable means for assessing competence in ERCP. Differences in learning curves can be shown with RAF-E. Verification of competence should be based on actual performance, instead of minimum numbers.