Principles of gastrointestinal endoscopy

Gastrointestinal endoscopy has been developing from rudimentary beginnings for more than 100 years. Technological advances have accelerated in the last 30 years, transforming image quality, and allowing the passage of endoscopes to previously inaccessible organs. Endoscopic techniques have become more sophisticated and training has been regulated and standardized, making this powerful diagnostic tool safer and more effective. Therapeutic interventions are also more advanced, meaning that endoscopy may increasingly be used as a viable alternative to surgery. This article provides an overview of the most common diagnostic endoscopic procedures, and gives an introduction to the equipment, facilities and interventions that define endoscopy unit activity today. Indications and risks of each of the individual procedures are discussed. Regulation is an increasingly important facet of NHS operation, and the organization of the monitoring of quality and safety of endoscopy procedures and training is also covered in the article.