New methods in gastroenterology

Major advances in gastroenterology are due in part to the rapid development of fiberendoscopes. Originally intended to improve gastroenterological diagnostics, the field of application was broadened by a variety of therapeutic procedures which now concur with the corresponding surgical approach. Endoscopic electro- and photocoagulation has considerably improved the outcome of acute gastrointestinal hemorrhage: endoscopic polypectomy is the procedure of choice today in benign and occasionally in malignant bowel tumors. Biliary tract surgery was revolutionized by endoscopic sphincterotomy, offering a low-risk procedure in high-risk patients with common bile duct stones. Endoscopic treatment of chronic pancreatitis by duct occlusion is just the beginning, and the old dream of dissolving gallstones rapidly by perfusing the biliary system with litholytic agents is now reality. Finally, the transhepatic or internal drainage in obstructive jaundice leads to transitory preoperative or permanent relief in malignant blockade of bile flow.