Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and the pancreas: when and why?
Historically, endoscopic retrograde cholangeopancreatography (ERCP) has played a unique role as a diagnostic and therapeutic modality for diseases of the pancreas. Despite the advent of new imaging techniques, ERCP continues to play a central role in the evaluation and treatment of pancreatitis of various causes. Endoscopic cholangiography and stenting remain mainstays in the palliation of inoperable obstructive jaundice in patients with cancer of the pancreas.