Frontiers of biliary endoscopy

Endoscopic techniques have contributed considerably in the diagnosis and management of patients with biliary problems. Several challenges remain. Techniques can certainly be improved to facilitate procedures and to reduce their risk. The main challenges now are to evaluate outcomes more objectively and to develop the interface between endoscopy and other related techniques, particularly radiology and surgery. State-of-the-art patient management demands a multidisciplinary team approach. None of these techniques can be applied appropriately and optimally without adequate specialist training.