[Endoscopic interventions of the biliary system].

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Endoscopic interventions
• Biliary system imaging

Background:

• Biliary system interventions aim to relieve outflow obstruction (e.g., choledocholithiasis) or ensure bile flow via stent drainage.
• Diagnostic endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) is largely replaced by therapeutic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the role of therapeutic ERC in managing biliary obstructions.
• To present endoscopic ultrasound-guided approaches as an alternative when papilla access is challenging.

Main Methods:

• Therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) for biliary interventions.
• Minimally invasive endoscopic techniques.
• Endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary access.

Main Results:

• Therapeutic ERC is the primary endoscopic method for treating biliary outflow obstructions.
• Stent drainage optimizes bile flow in various biliary conditions.
• Endoscopic ultrasound-guided access provides a valid alternative for experienced endoscopists when standard ERC is not feasible.

Conclusions:

• Therapeutic ERC remains the gold standard for minimally invasive biliary interventions.
• Endoscopic ultrasound offers a crucial alternative for complex cases requiring biliary access.