PERCUTANEOUS PALLIATION OF UNRESECTABLE PANCREATIC-CANCER

Patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer that produces biliary obs truction are treated optimally with endoscopically placed endoprosthes es. Percutaneous biliary drainage is another effective form of palliat ion, and is indicated when endoscopic palliation is unsuccessful or no t available. Expandable metal prostheses placed percutaneously are an effective method of palliating patients with pancreatic cancer and com mon bile duct obstruction. Internal-external biliary drainage catheter s also are effective and are preferable with hilar rather than common bile duct obstruction.