Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the management of bile duct stones

Gallstone disease is a major cause of the need for abdominal surgery, and the most common indication for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Although it is a mature technology, ERCP remains a robust solution for the management of bile duct stones and, in most such cases, the treatment of choice. Although the diagnostic role of ERCP as a diagnostic pancreaticobiliary procedure has declined, its role as an effective therapeutic platform has continued to grow. The ability of ERCP to retain its go-to status in the great majority of bile duct stone cases is the result not only of the continued development of new technology but is also the end effect of continued refinement of existing technologies as well as the successful adaptation and adoption of new techniques.