Cutting-Edge Technologies for Gastrointestinal Therapeutic Endoscopy

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Endoscopic Surgery

Background:

• Advancements in flexible endoscopy and minimally invasive treatment demand have expanded therapeutic endoscopy indications.
• Therapeutic endoscopy encompasses tissue removal, hemostasis, and dilatation techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current endoscopic treatment methods for gastrointestinal conditions.
• To highlight advancements in minimally invasive endoscopic procedures.

Main Methods:

• Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for neoplasm removal.
• Laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS) for deeper lesions.
• Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for esophageal achalasia.
• Hemostasis techniques for iatrogenic bleeding management.

Main Results:

• ESD is the gold standard for gastrointestinal neoplasms.
• LECS and endoscopic full-thickness resection address deeper lesions.
• New shielding and suturing methods improve hemostasis after ESD.
• POEM offers a minimally invasive option for achalasia, with endoscopic fundoplication to prevent reflux.

Conclusions:

• Therapeutic endoscopy, including ESD, LECS, and POEM, is increasingly utilized, particularly in Japan.
• Minimally invasive endoscopic treatments are crucial for an aging population.
• Continued development is expected for endoscopic treatments with broader applications.