The initial success rate for palliation of jaundice is similar after endoscopic stenting and biliary bypass operation. Morbidity and 30-day mortality rates are greater after the bypass operation. Biliary stenting is associated with a higher rate of hospital readmission and reintervention for recurrent jaundice (28% to 43%) and subsequent gastric outlet obstruction (up to 17%). The outcomes of the initial operative bypass procedure favor combined biliary and gastric bypass.