Building a Third SPACE Endoscopy Program Within a Community Hospital

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Endoscopic Surgery

Background:

• Third space endoscopy (TSE) encompasses advanced endoscopic techniques.
• The field has evolved beyond traditional endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) and peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM).
• Newer techniques include derivatives of POEM and submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection (STER).

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline clinical questions and strategies for building a successful third space endoscopy program.
• To address the implementation of TSE within a community hospital setting.
• To align TSE strategy with hospital and community needs.

Main Methods:

• Review of current advancements in third space endoscopy.
• Analysis of implementation strategies for community hospitals.
• Identification of key factors for successful program establishment.

Main Results:

• There is limited data on third space endoscopy in American community hospitals.
• Successful TSE implementation relies on proper training, mentorship, and industry-sponsored courses.
• Appropriate patient selection and indications are crucial for program success.

Conclusions:

• Community hospitals can establish successful third space endoscopy programs.
• Future research should investigate TSE outcomes in non-academic settings.
• Focus on training and mentorship is vital for advancing TSE in community hospitals.