Charles J. Lightdale, MD, Consulting Editor

In the United States, ERCP and EUS are performed mostly by interventional gastroenterologists, whereas in other areas of the world larger numbers of radiologists and surgeons also practice these procedures. Recently, direct endoscopic examination of the bile ducts with peroral cholangioscopy has become widely available, and advanced imaging technology has allowed visualization at the cellular level. A dazzling array of therapeutic devices have been developed to perform endoscopic papillotomy and ampullectomy, remove stones, dilate strictures, ablate malignant tissue, and implant temporary and permanent stents. Once limited to academic medical centers, endoscopic treatment of biliary disease is now widely practiced in a community setting. The field is still young and attracts an increasing number of trainees, many willing to devote additional time in advanced training programs to master the techniques involved. Certainly, endoscopic methods have resulted in tremendous benefit to those suffering from bile duct disorders.

Dr Jacques Van Dam is the Guest Editor for this issue of the Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Clinics of North America . He has focused brilliantly on this subject and selected an outstanding group of experts in biliary disease to author articles that fully cover the field. Here is the latest information coupled with wise advice regarding when and how to best apply endoscopic methods. Gastroenterologists, surgeons, radiologists, at all levels of experience, if you deal with biliary disease, this volume is for you.