Greetings from the Guest Editor

Abstract

Endoscopic management of biliary stricture is common for endoscopists, and there are many articles about this procedure. However, we should think about the strategies and right devices for the cases with various situations with biliary stricture. In this special edition, I had selected some recent topics in this field.

For diagnosis, we can use per-oral cholangioscopy and probe-based confocal lase endoscopy (P-CLE) evaluate biliary stricture under direct visualization. Low diagnostic sensitivity is current problem and these new modalities are considered as promising candidates. Then, I want to introduce the recent advance of these new modalities. There are various situations with biliary stricture for management; Benign or malignant, bridge to surgery or palliative and with or without gastric outlet obstruction. Selection and developments of stents were also continuous issue for better management of biliary stricture. Brand-new concept is radio frequency ablation (RFA) therapy for tumorous biliary stricture. Many endoscopists may interest this new treatment. In addition, surgical management was required sometimes because of limitation of endoscopic procedures. We should know the surgical information as well.

There are many issues remaining for the treatment of biliary stricture. We should try to make better management way for the patients. I hope that this special edition may help the readers to understand current advancing and is a chance to think the future way.

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