Updates in biliary endoscopy 2006.
OBJECTIVE
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is reserved primarily for therapeutic reasons. Recent literature continues to support therapeutic uses of the technique. This review addresses the literature in the field of biliary endoscopy for the year 2006 and is intended to assist gastroenterologists and gastrointestinal surgeons in everyday practice.


RESULTS
Endoscopic management of choledocholithiasis in gallstone pancreatitis, a newer approach in the endoscopic management of malignant biliary strictures, the broadening therapeutic indications including the use of gallbladder stenting and the performance of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in patients with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass are discussed. Safety of the technique continues to be addressed. The risks of pancreatitis after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography as well as morbidity in the elderly are addressed.


CONCLUSIONS
Major updates in the management of biliary tract disease using biliary endoscopy are discussed over a broad range of biliary tract diseases. The literature emphasizes the broadening therapeutic role of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography as well as improvements in our understanding of risk factors for complications and the potential for their prevention.
Wamsteker
Erik-Jan
EJ
The University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0362, USA. ewamstek@umich.edu
D001649:Bile Duct Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D002760:Cholangiopancreatography, Endoscopic Retrograde / Q000639:trends*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D016896:Treatment Outcome