Minimizing complications in pancreaticobiliary endoscopy

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic ultrasound are invaluable tools in the diagnostic and therapeutic evaluation and management of a variety of pancreatobiliary disorders. Along with a significant refinement in the equipment and techniques used has come a recent trend toward aggressive therapeutic interventions. Because of the technical nature of these procedures and the characteristics of the patients, postprocedural complications may occur, ranging from minor (requiring brief hospitalization) to severe (causing permanent disability or death). This review summarizes these complications and outlines strategies to minimize them.