Background: In this prospective case series, endoscopic management of pancreatic pseudocysts and abscesses was investigated following an EUS-guided I-step procedure for initial transmural access. Methods: Endoscopic drainage of pancreatic pseudocysts and abscesses was performed in 35 patients (mean age, 51 years; range, 21-81 years) by using interventional echoendoscopes (FG38UX and EG3830UT; PentaxHitachi, Lubbecke, Germany). Interventions were performed by using a I-step device consisting of a needle-wire suitable for cutting current, a 5.5F dilator, and an 8.5F plastic endoprosthesis (Giovannini Needle Wire Oasis, Cook Endoscopy, Winston-Salem, NC). Results: Endoscopic stent placement was successful in 33 of 35 patients (94%), whereas repeated needle passages were unsuccessful in 2 cases (pancreatic pseudocyst wall, 7 mm). No procedure-related complications, such as bleeding, perforation, or pneumoperitoneum, were observed. All subsequent complications, such as ineffective drainage (9%), stent occlusion (12%), or cyst infection (12%), were managed endoscopically Fourteen patients (43%) demonstrated sustained clinical improvement and cyst resolution upon placement of the initial 8.5F transmural drain. Ten patients (30%) did not reveal a 50% reduction in cyst size on day 3, but cyst resolution was achieved by additional endoscopic cyst irrigation. Nine patients (27%) with primary or secondary cyst infection under-went endoscopic balloon dilation and prolonged endoscopic drainage procedures to achieve cyst resolution. The overall resolution rate was 88%, with a recurrence rate of 12%, based on a mean follow-up period of 24 months. Conclusion: This I-step EUS-guided technique with a needle-wire device provides safe transmural access and allows subsequent effective endoscopic management of pancreatic pseudocysts and abscesses.
