Six RCTs were included in the review (n=2,710): one scored 2 for quality, one scored 3 and four scored 4.
Corticosteroids were not associated with a reduction in post-ERCP pancreatitis (odds ratio 1.13, 95% CI: 0.88 to 1.46, p=0.34; n=2,448). No significant statistical heterogeneity was detected (Χ2=8.56, I2=41.6%). Sensitivity and subgroup analyses showed similar results.
The funnel plot was asymmetric, which suggested possible publication bias.