Endoscopic ultrasonography using new functions for pancreatobiliary diseases: current status and future perspectives

A new endoscopic ultrasound processor (EU-ME2 Premier Plus) has recently been developed. It improves fundamental imaging and enables three new functions; namely, tissue harmonic echo (THE), elastography, and contrast harmonic endoscopic ultrasonography (CH-EUS). However, many aspects regarding the usefulness of these three functions in the diagnosis of pancreatobiliary diseases remain unknown. In connection with and prior to the convening of Endoscopy Forum Japan 2014, endoscopic ultrasonography using EU-ME2 Premier Plus was carried out for pancreatic, bile duct, and gallbladder cases at 12 participating institutions (Japan [n = 10]; other Asian countries [n = 2]). A questionnaire survey was conducted regarding the usefulness of EU-ME2 Premier Plus for each EUS case. In addition, participants' views were surveyed by asking them to vote as to whether or not the three functions of EU-ME2 Premier Plus were useful for several items under pancreatic, bile duct, and gallbladder indications. According to the participants' views, THE (particularly THE-P mode) is essential for the diagnosis of cystic lesions. Many participants viewed elastography as useful in only extremely limited cases. Although CH-EUS was not considered useful for all cases, its indications covered a broad range. Additional studies are warranted to clarify the functions of EU-ME2 Premier Plus in more detail.