Canadian journal of gastroenterology & hepatology
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Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol · Jan 2014
Review Meta AnalysisEndoscopic transmural necrosectomy for walled-off pancreatic necrosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Endoscopic transmural necrosectomy (ETN) is emerging as a viable treatment option for walled-off pancreatic necrosis. This NOTES-type procedure is significantly less invasive than an extensive surgical debridement; however, published data regarding the success of ETN in treating pancreatic necrosis have varied. ⋯ The present meta-analysis showed that ETN is safe and effective at treating patients with symptomatic walled-off necrosis. ETN offers the advantage of minimally invasive endoscopic treatment without transabdominal surgery; however, better techniques and equipment are still needed to improve procedural efficiency. Decisions to perform ETN should be made by advanced endoscopists in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team with the facilities and personnel to manage these complex patients.