Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Endoscopic Management of Peripancreatic Fluid Collections

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Interventional Endoscopy
• Clinical Practice Guidelines

Background:

• Endoscopic ultrasonography-guided intervention is a standard treatment for peripancreatic fluid collections (PFCs).
• Popularization in Korea is hindered by insurance restrictions and lack of standardized clinical practice guidelines.
• The Korean Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy established a Task Force to develop these guidelines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop standardized medical guidelines for endoscopic management of PFCs in Korea.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for clinical practice.
• To address challenges in the widespread adoption of the procedure.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of previous studies on PFCs.
• Selection of studies with expert input.
• Formulation of key questions and peer review of treatment guidelines.
• Referral to the National Evidence-Based Healthcare Collaborating Agency's manual.

Main Results:

• The guideline provides recommendations on indications, pre-procedural preparations, and drainage approaches.
• It details procedural considerations, including stent types (plastic vs. metal) and accessories.
• It covers adverse events and procedural quality issues.

Conclusions:

• The guideline offers best practices for endoscopic management of PFCs based on available evidence.
• It aims to standardize the procedure and improve accessibility in Korea.
• The guideline will be revised to incorporate future technological and clinical advancements.