[Oddi's sphincter dysfunction]

Since the first description by Glisson in 1681 many papers about the sphincter of Oddi have been published contributing to the understanding of its physiology. Sphincter manometry has brought to light new facts that allow a better understanding of old concepts such as the biliary dyskinesia and the post-cholecystectomy syndrome as well as a more rational evaluation of the clinical results of the sphincterectomy. A review of the physiologic, pharmacologic, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of the dysfunction of the sphincter of Oddi is presented.