Endoscopic transgastric drainage of pancreatic pseudocyst with the use of Nd:YAG laser.

Pancreatic pseudocysts have been successfully managed with endoscopic drainage recently. This report describes a case of endoscopic transgastric drainage using endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and an Nd:YAG laser. EUS was used to detect an optimal puncture site of the pseudocyst and to reduce the risk of bleeding and perforation. An Nd:YAG laser was used to minimize the risk of bleeding and to penetrate the thick wall of the pseudocyst. After transgastric cystgastrostomy was performed, an internal stent was placed between the pseudocyst and the stomach. There were no complications associated with endoscopic interventions. Complete resolution of the pseudocyst was observed. Endoscopic transgastric drainage of pancreatic pseudocysts is a recommended approach for selected patients with pancreatic pseudocysts that are uncomplicated and are located adjacent to the stomach. Safe and effective drainage can be achieved without hemorrhage and perforation with the use of EUS, an Nd:YAG laser, and a stent. Furthermore, the Nd:YAG laser facilitated passage through a markedly indurated pseudocyst wall and it seemed to be an effective instrument, especially for pseudocysts with a thick wall.