Cholangioscopy in biliary tract disease (Thieme, Jan-2026)

Cholangioscopy is a specialized endoscopic procedure that allows direct visualization of the bile ducts, aiding in the diagnosis and management of biliary tract diseases such as strictures, stones, and malignancies. It is particularly valuable when conventional imaging and sampling techniques, such as brush cytology or forceps biopsy during ERCP, fail to provide definitive results. Cholangioscopy facilitates targeted biopsies and enhances diagnostic accuracy.

Recent advancements include the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) systems to analyze cholangioscopy footage. Studies, such as the one described in the provided context, demonstrate that AI systems can significantly outperform traditional ERCP sampling modalities in diagnosing malignancy. The AI system reviewed was shown to achieve higher sensitivity, specificity, and overall accuracy in classifying biliary strictures, making it a promising tool for improving diagnostic confidence and patient outcomes.