Initial Use of a Steerable Device for EUS-Guided Bile Duct Drainage

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)–guided bile duct drainage is rarely performed, partially because the procedure is technically demanding and perceived to be high-risk. Furthermore, there is an extreme paucity of devices specifically designed for this purpose.

Now, investigators have retrospectively evaluated the safety and efficacy of a novel, steerable endoscopic device that can potentially facilitate access to the bile duct and enable proper orientation for deep biliary access via a guidewire. The device, a modified needle that can be steered and curved as needed, could potentially overcome the limitations that endoscopists face when using simple straight needles. The study reviewed the use of the device in 22 patients who underwent EUS-guided …