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Pediatric endoscopy
1Endoscopy Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Insights
Pediatric endoscopy has greatly expanded due to subspecialty growth and better technology. This allows for new diagnoses and less invasive treatments for children
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Background:
- Pediatric gastroenterology has emerged as a subspecialty.
- Advancements in small-diameter endoscope design and accessibility have driven progress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review key pediatric endoscopy applications.
- To contrast pediatric and adult endoscopic practices.
- To forecast future research and development in pediatric endoscopy.
Main Methods:
- Review of pediatric endoscopy literature.
- Analysis of current clinical practices.
- Discussion of technological advancements.
Main Results:
- Significant expansion in pediatric endoscopy over 30 years.
- Endoscopic evaluation leads to novel diagnoses in children.
- Nonsurgical treatment options are increasingly available.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric endoscopy is a rapidly advancing field.
- Endoscopic techniques offer significant benefits for pediatric gastrointestinal diseases.
- Future developments promise further improvements in diagnosis and treatment.
Abstract:
The emergence of pediatric gastroenterology as a subspecialty and improved design and widespread distribution of small diameter endoscopes have combined to foster dramatic expansion in the practice of pediatric endoscopy over the past three decades. Endoscopic evaluation and treatment of gastrointestinal disease in children has led to new diagnoses and provided exciting opportunities for nonsurgical treatment. This article will focus on important pediatric applications, highlight differences with adult practice, and anticipate future research and development of pediatric endoscopy.