Introduction Pancreaticobiliary malignancies comprise a mixed bag of cancers including pancreatic cancer, carcinoma of the ampulla of Vater, duodenal carcinoma, gallbladder carcinoma, and cholangiocarcinomas. When they are located at the level of the liver hilum, cholangiocarcinomas are referred to as…
EUS for the Evaluation and Staging of Pancreatic Tumors Introduction Examination of the pancreas and biliary structures by endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) can be technically challenging to master due to the need to recognize patterns of normal, benign, and pathologic anatomy.…
Pancreatic cysts are relatively rare lesions, and their diagnosis has increased with the widespread availability and use of cross-sectional imaging. In many cases pancreatic cysts are detected on imaging performed for another indication; however, they can also be seen in…
Introduction Indeterminate biliary stricture (IDBS) remains one of the biggest challenges that pancreaticobiliary endoscopists face. While a strict definition of IDBS is frequently not adhered to in the literature, this term refers to biliary strictures with no overt mass on…
Introduction Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is an inflammatory condition that results in fibrosis causing destruction of pancreatic parenchyma and ducts. These permanent structural changes can lead to impairment of exocrine and endocrine function, biliary strictures, and may increase the chances of…
Introduction Pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) and leaks develop due to main or secondary pancreatic ductal disruption caused by acute or chronic pancreatitis, trauma, or pancreatic surgery. PFCs include acute fluid collections, acute necrotic collections, pseudocysts, and walled-off necrosis. Most nonnecrotic…
Introduction Acute pancreatitis (AP) has an excellent prognosis if the severity is limited, and if the underlying cause can be identified and treated. However, AP may recur if the underlying causes are not eliminated or modified. Patients with recurrent AP…
Introduction Functional disorders of the biliary tree and pancreas are controversial topics, with insufficient scientific evidence to provide clear guidelines for clinical practice. This chapter attempts to summarize what is known, what is unclear, and what studies need to be…
Introduction The word cholangitis is a pathologic term that means “inflammation of bile ducts.” It is a broad term and does not imply any specific diagnosis. In clinical practice, cholangitis is defined on the basis of symptoms and signs of…
Introduction Accidental injuries of the bile ducts leading to biliary leaks and strictures may occur during any surgical procedure involving the biliary tract. However, the main causes of injury of the bile ducts at the present time are laparoscopic cholecystectomy…