Background: Complications of endoscopic transmural drainage of pancreatic fluid collections arise from entry through the gastrointestinal wall. We describe transmural drainage of these collections using the Seldinger technique without electrocautery. Methods: From January 1995 to September 1997, we attempted endoscopic transmural drainage of 94 consecutive pancreatic fluid collections without EUS guidance (needle-knife entry in 51, Seldinger entry technique in 43). Success of entry and complications were compared. Results: Successful entry was achieved in 95.3% using the Seldinger technique and 92.1% using the needle-knife entry technique (p = NS). Complications of bleeding and perforation were seen in 4.6% of patients in the Seldinger group and 15.7% in the needle-knife entry group. Conclusions: The Seldinger technique of endoscopic transmural drainage of pancreatic fluid collections appears effective and safer than entry using the needle-knife. Collections as small as 3 cm in diameter can be entered using the Seldinger technique without EUS guidance.
