Interventional treatment of acute and chronic pancreatitis. Endoscopic procedures.

The role of therapeutic endoscopy in the treatment of acute and chronic pancreatitis has expanded dramatically over the past 10 years. Drainage of pseudocysts 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 disruptions, strictures, and obstructive calculi. Its role in the management of acute recurrent pancreatitis with presumed Oddi's sphincter dysfunction or pancreas divisum continues to be defined. The cost-effectiveness and minimally invasive nature of endoscopic therapy compared with surgery should ensure the continued development of these techniques. More controlled, prospective data are required.