Role of imaging in evaluating the complications of endoscopic management of pancreatic fluid collections in acute pancreatitis

Abdom Radiol (NY). 2024 May 20. doi: 10.1007/s00261-024-04348-y. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Acute pancreatitis is associated with local and systemic complications. Pancreatic fluid collection (PFC) is the most common local complication. Infected or symptomatic PFCs need drainage. Endoscopic drainage (ED) is the first-line procedure for accessible PFCs adjacent to the stomach and duodenum. ED is performed under endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guidance. The technical and clinical success rates of EUS-guided ED in well-encapsulated PFCs are high. ED of poorly encapsulated PFCs is associated with complications. Bleeding and perforation are the most common complications. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography is critical in planning ED and early detection and management of complications. With the increasing utilization of ED for PFC, the radiologist must be familiar with the ED techniques, types of stents, and the complications related to ED. In this review, we discuss the technical aspects of the ED as well as the imaging findings of ED-related complications.

Keywords: Acute pancreatitis; Collections; Drainage; Endoscopy; Stents.

Publication types

  • Review