Endoscopic Interventions of the Digestive Tract: Current and Future Applications

Kevin El-Hayek, MD

The applications of the flexible endoscope have advanced at a torrid pace since its contemporary addition to the medical field in the 1950s. The initial indication for flexible endoscopic interventions within the digestive tract was exclusively diagnostic with the “gastrocamera” design. Eventually, and corresponding with improving imaging technologies, the endoscope could be used to perform more detailed examinations and tissue acquisition for pathologic evaluation. More recently, interval advancements of the endoscope design have allowed endoscopists to perform more complex procedures for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. In this issue of Digestive Disease Interventions, we have invited world renowned experts to guide us on a tour of several key aspects and updates regarding endoscopic tools and techniques. We start with several manuscripts dedicated to fundamental topics such as endoscopic training paradigms and the basic use of diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy. Next, current updates in common gastrointestinal problems such as gastrointestinal bleeding and enteral access will be discussed. Following this, readers will find several manuscripts devoted to the management of gastrointestinal complications and the emerging field of endoscopic intramural surgery. Finally, the novel applications of endoscopic metabolic surgery and future directions are described. This issue of Digestive Disease Interventions promises to be a concise reference for any physician interested in the current and future applications of the flexible endoscope.