Post written by Ryan Law, DO, from the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.

The focus of this manuscript was very simple. I aimed to identify what I believe are the most important pearls for successful endoscopic management of patients with biliary hilar obstruction. The goal was to simplify this topic into a palatable approach for the readership.

I believe this manuscript was important to describe my approach to stent management in patients with hilar biliary obstruction. In endoscopy, there are always multiple ways to accomplish the same task.

This manuscript represents what I believe are the most important endoscopic concepts in approaching patients with hilar obstruction. These concepts are a conglomeration of teachings from prior mentors along with my own preferences and ideology.

In this article, I touched on a variety of topics related to endoscopic management for hilar obstruction. This Top Tips contribution walks the reader through pre-, intra-, and postprocedure aspects that are important to focus on. Many of these concepts are founded in experience, not necessary data. I hope the readership enjoys my contribution to the literature.

The Bismuth-Corlette classification of hilar obstruction (used with permission from the Mayo Clinic).

Read the full article online.

The information presented in Endoscopedia reflects the opinions of the authors and does not represent the position of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE). ASGE expressly disclaims any warranties or guarantees, expressed or implied, and is not liable for damages of any kind in connection with the material, information, or procedures set forth.