The role of endoscopy in the therapy of chronic pancreatitis

Almost all the therapeutic efforts in the treatment of chronic pancreatitis are directed towards pain control. Endoscopic techniques available for this purpose are endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (combined or not with extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy) and endoscopic ultrasound. Pancreatic stones and strictures, pancreatic pseudocysts, and common bile duct strictures complicating chronic pancreatitis can be treated by endoscopy. The development of endoscopic ultrasound extended the possibilities in the treatment of pancreatic pseudocysts and main pancreatic duct drainage. Endoscopy is considered the first-line treatment in chronic pancreatitis and can be useful also as a ‘bridge to surgery’. In fact the endoscopic approach to chronic pancreatitis can predict the response to surgical therapy as a definitive treatment. Medical, endoscopic and surgical methods for the management of chronic pancreatitis should all be considered in decision-making, and the best treatment should be chosen case by case and according to the local expertise.