The role of the paediatric endoscopist

The role of the paediatric endoscopist has been a changing one. When I first commenced at the Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children in Sydney 25 years ago, paediatric endoscopy of the upper respiratory tract and oesophagus was a limited and poorly defined field. Most endoscopic examinations were requested, often reluctantly, by a paediatrician in the investigation of stridor. In fact my first consultation involved instructions to perform a laryngoscopy, but not a bronchoscopy and general anaesthesia was not to be used! How different the situation is now--the paediatric endoscopist is regarded as a true consultant and his opinion is sought in the investigation and management of congenital or acquired airway and intra-thoracic problems.