Novel endoscopic approaches for assessing biliary tract diseases.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Biliary endoscopy offers both diagnostic and therapeutic value in complex clinical situations. This review addresses the latest advances over the past year in endoscopic approaches of biliary tract diseases. RECENT FINDINGS: Specifically, we focus on the latest findings on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for the evaluation of biliary strictures. In addition, key studies have demonstrated the enhanced role of cholangioscopy, photodynamic therapy in cholangiocarcinoma, and biliary stent technology. SUMMARY: The following review focuses on the latest advancements in the field of biliary endoscopy. Pivotal studies were selected to highlight some of the current investigations in therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography as well as knowledge gaps for future research.