Endoscopic ultrasonography as a therapeutic modality

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) has taken on more of a therapeutic role in recent years. This review will focus on the therapeutic applications of EUS. RECENT FINDINGS: Multiple studies on the therapeutic applications of EUS have been published. EUS facilitates endoscopic drainage of pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) including walled-off pancreatic necrosis, management of refractory gastrointestinal bleeding from gastric varix or vasculature by fine-needle injection and decompression of obstructive pancreatic or biliary ductal systems following failed access by standard endoscopic or radiological techniques. SUMMARY: The indications and role of therapeutic EUS have expanded rapidly in recent years. The procedures can be technically challenging, requiring expertise in both endosonography and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Refinement in echoendoscope design and dedicated accessories are required to further expand the applications of therapeutic EUS.