Feasibility of a novel system for intraductal balloon-anchored direct peroral cholangioscopy and endotherapy with an ultraslim endoscope (with videos).

Background: Advantages of direct peroral cholangioscopy (DPOCS) by using an ultraslim endoscope include a single-operator platform, image quality equal to that of standard endoscopy, and separate water and air channels. However, DPOCS has significant limitations, including cumbersome biliary access, en-face position with the ampulla, and gastric looping of the endoscope. A newly designed anchoring balloon may overcome these challenges.

A new alternative for a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt: EUS-guided creation of an intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (with video).

Background: Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPSS) is an effective treatment for portal hypertension and its associated complications. EUS-guided creation of an intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (IPSS) may become a useful alternative to conventional TIPSS.

Objective: To assess the feasibility of EUS-guided IPSS creation in a live porcine model.