| The evolution of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) from a diagnostic to a therapeutic procedure has resulted in a paradigm shift toward endoscopic management of disease states that previously required percutaneous or surgical approaches. The past few years have seen additional techniques and devices that have enabled endoscopists to expand its diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. Lack of formalized training, devices, and prospective data regarding their use in addition to a scarcity of guidelines on implementation of these technologies into clinical practice are contributing factors impeding the growth of the field of interventional EUS. For example, puncture needles are derived from EUS-FNA, and guidewires are derived from ERCP. Mismatch or incompatibility between these devices increases the reliance on the skills of the operating assistants. Assistants need to completely understand the patient's condition and procedural details before an operation, grasp all relevant techniques, pay attention to details, accumulate experience, and develop the skills required to respond to all kinds of emergencies in a timely and independent manner, to avoid procedure failure. We also look forward to the development of more specialized devices in future to make EUS interventional drainage more convenient, efficient, and safe. |
