Technology assessment status evaluation: disposable endoscopic accessories. American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

Data supporting the preferential use of disposable endoscopic accessories is limited. These devices have been widely disseminated without careful evaluation of their impact on the environment and medical costs. In addition, current facility reimbursement for endoscopic procedures does not adequately cover the costs of these accessories.

Technology assessment status evaluation: monitoring equipment for endoscopy. American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

An understanding of the principles and limitations of monitoring devices is valuable for their appropriate use and interpretation. Reliable monitoring de available as an adjunct to skilled personnel to detect changes in patient condition during endoscopy. Combination units that provide pulse oximetry, automated sphygmomanometry and ECG monitoring appear to be the most convenient and cost effective products.

Technology assessment status evaluation: balloon dilation of gastrointestinal tract strictures. American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

Balloon dilation is an acceptable modality for the dilation of stenoses at various sites in the gastrointestinal tract. In the esophagus its reported efficacy and safety is similar to bougienage; in other sites it offers an alternative to surgical treatment, in most cases as the definitive therapy.

Bile leak after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Diagnostic and therapeutic application of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography.

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy, introduced less than 2 years ago, is widely accepted by patients and physicians despite the lack of controlled trials comparing this technology with conventional cholecystectomy. Recent series have described a variable incidence of biliary tract injury with laparoscopic gallbladder removal. The primary interaction of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with this technology is usually in the preoperative or postoperative diagnosis and treatment of common bile duct stones.