Advances in Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has evolved over the last four decades into a therapeutic procedure for a variety of pancreaticobiliary conditions. Recently, there have been a number of technologic and pharmacologic advances that have impacted the timing, indications, success, and safety of ERCP. Furthermore, as we evolve to value-based medicine, we have to prove not only that we can perform a procedure but also when we should perform it and balance risk, benefits, and cost against alternative treatment strategies. Fortunately for ERCP, many alternatives are higher risk, less successful radiologic and surgical interventions and ERCP remains well-poised to provide continued value for our patients. The authors who agreed to contribute to this issue of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Clinics of North America represent an international who’s who in ERCP, and I am personally grateful to each one of them for agreeing to participate. All aspects of pancreaticobiliary endoscopy are covered in conceptual and technical detail. The articles are truly outstanding, and this issue will be an invaluable resource for endoscopists at all levels of training and experience, including fellows, practitioners, and even Master Endoscopists. I hope you enjoy reading and referencing this issue as much as I enjoyed putting it together, and I, again, extend my warmest thanks to the contributing authors.

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