Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Biliary Drainage

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Interventional Endoscopy

Background:

• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided biliary drainage is an emerging technique.
• It combines advantages of endoscopic and percutaneous approaches.
• It avoids the inconveniences of indwelling external catheters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the emerging technique of EUS-guided biliary drainage.
• To highlight the growing interest and experience in this procedure.

Main Methods:

• Several EUS-guided techniques have been developed.
• These techniques access the obstructed biliary tree from the stomach or duodenum.
• Technique selection depends on stricture location, patient anatomy, and endoscopist experience.

Main Results:

• Growing interest and experience in EUS-biliary drainage have been observed.
• Various EUS-guided techniques are available for accessing the biliary tree.

Conclusions:

• EUS-guided biliary drainage is a promising alternative to traditional methods.
• The technique offers a less invasive option for managing biliary obstruction.