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World J Gastrointest Endosc. Mar 16, 2010; 2(3): 77-80
Published online Mar 16, 2010. doi: 10.4253/wjge.v2.i3.77
Published online Mar 16, 2010. doi: 10.4253/wjge.v2.i3.77
Endoscopic approach to pancreatic pseudocysts: An American perspective
Jay P Babich, David M Friedel, Winthrop University Hospital, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, NY 11501, United States
Author contributions: Babich JP and Friedel DM contributed equally to this paper.
Correspondence to: Jay P Babich, MD, Winthrop University Hospital, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, 222 Station Plaza North Suite 428, Mineola, NY 11501, United States. jbabich@winthrop.org
Telephone: +1-516-6632066 Fax: +1-516-6634655
Received: August 8, 2009
Revised: February 1, 2010
Accepted: February 8, 2010
Published online: March 16, 2010
Revised: February 1, 2010
Accepted: February 8, 2010
Published online: March 16, 2010
Abstract
Pancreatic pseudocysts, abscesses, and walled-off pancreatic necrosis are types of pancreatic fluid collections that arise as a consequence of pancreatic injury. Pain, early satiety, biliary obstruction, and infection are all indications for drainage. Percutaneous-radiologic drainage, surgical drainage, and endoscopic drainage are the three traditional approaches to the drainage of pancreatic pseudocysts. The endoscopic approach to pancreatic pseudocysts has evolved over the past thirty years and endoscopists are often capable of draining these collections. In experienced centers endoscopic ultrasound-guided endoscopic drainage avoids complications related to percutaneous drainage and is less invasive than surgery.