Interventional treatment of acute and chronic pancreatitis - Endoscopic procedures

The role of therapeutic endoscopy in the treatment of acute and chronic pan creatitis has expanded dramatically over the past 10 years. Drainage of pse udocysts and even organized pancreatic necrosis when localized are becoming commonplace. Other areas in which therapeutic endoscopy has been shown to be efficacious include severe biliary pancreatitis, pancreatic duct disrupt ions, strictures, and obstructive calculi. Its role in the management of ac ute recurrent pancreatitis with presumed Oddi's sphincter dysfunction or pa ncreas divisum continues to be defined. The cost-effectiveness and minimall y invasive nature of endoscopic therapy compared with surgery should ensure the continued development of these techniques. More controlled, prospectiv e data are required.