The endoscopist and malignant and non-malignant biliary obstruction

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Hepatology
• Interventional Endoscopy

Background:

• Biliary strictures present complex diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
• Accurate diagnosis and timely management require multidisciplinary decision-making.
• The differential diagnosis for biliary obstruction is broad.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in endoscopic diagnosis and management of biliary strictures.
• To highlight the role of emerging endoscopic techniques in patient care.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent developments in endoscopic ultrasound (EUS).
• Discussion of advances in peroral cholangioscopy (POCS).
• Exploration of novel optical imaging techniques for biliary endoscopy.

Main Results:

• Endoscopic ultrasound and POCS have significantly improved the diagnostic yield of biliary endoscopy.
• New optical imaging techniques are enhancing diagnostic capabilities.
• Therapeutic endoscopic ultrasound now enables drainage in cases previously requiring surgery or percutaneous intervention.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic approaches are increasingly preferred for biliary drainage.
• Recent endoscopic innovations offer improved diagnostic accuracy and less invasive therapeutic options for biliary strictures.
• Continued advancements in endoscopic practice are crucial for optimal patient management.