Interventional endoscopy and laparoscopy in GI diseases

This issue of Digestive Diseases brings together an international panel of highly skilled and renown surgical experts introducing the reader to the latest innovations in surgical endoscopy and laparoscopy. In recent years there has been a wide range of innovations and new developments in gastrointestinal endoscopy. New technical devices based on high magnification have further progressed to the dimension of microscopic endoscopy. Moreover, the visual assessment of the entire small bowel and the biliary/pancreatic system has become possible. These developments have revolutionized the approach to diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. The borders between traditional medical and surgical endoscopy are beginning to disappear, making room for more interaction across medical and surgical disciplines. Integrating gastroenterological and surgical points of view on these modern technologies will greatly benefit the patients. Those involved in the surgical treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, be it gastroenterological surgeons or surgical gastroenterologists, will find a wealth of information in this publication.