View source for Gastroenterology

{{Short description|Branch of medicine focused on the digestive system and its disorders}}
{{Infobox medical speciality
| title        = Gastroenterology
| subdivisions = 
| image        = Digestive system diagram en.svg
| caption      = Illustration of the digestive system
| system       = [[Gastrointestinal system|Gastrointestinal]]
| diseases     = [[Gastrointestinal cancer]]s, [[Gastrointestinal bleeding]], [[Liver cirrhosis]], [[Gallstones]], [[Gastroenteritis]], [[Inflammatory bowel disease]]
| tests        = [[Colonoscopy]], [[Stool test]], [[Barium swallow]]s, [[Endoscopy]]
| specialist   = Gastroenterologist
| glossary     = [[Glossary of medicine]]
}}
{{Infobox Occupation
| name= Gastroenterologist
| image=
| caption=
| official_names=
* Physician
| type= [[Specialty (medicine)|Specialty]]
| activity_sector= [[Medicine]]
| competencies=
| formation=
* [[Doctor of Medicine]] (M.D.)
* [[Doctor of Osteopathic medicine]] (D.O.)
* [[Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery]] (M.B.B.S.)
* [[Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery]] (MBChB)
| employment_field= [[Hospital]]s, [[Clinic]]s
| related_occupation=
}}

'''Gastroenterology''' (from the Greek gastḗr- "belly", -énteron "intestine", and -logía "study of") is the branch of [[medicine]] focused on the [[digestive system]] and its disorders.<ref name="American College of Gastroenterology">{{Cite web |title=What is a Gastroenterologist? |url=https://gi.org/patients/gi-health-and-disease/what-is-a-gastroenterologist/ |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=American College of Gastroenterology |language=en-US}}</ref> The digestive system consists of the [[gastrointestinal tract]], sometimes referred to as the ''GI tract,'' which includes the [[esophagus]], [[stomach]], [[small intestine]] and [[large intestine]] as well as the [[accessory organs of digestion]] which include the [[pancreas]], [[gallbladder]], and [[liver]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Gastrointestinal Tract MeSH Descriptor Data |url=https://meshb.nlm.nih.gov/record/ui?ui=D041981 |access-date=2022-12-12 |website=meshb.nlm.nih.gov}}</ref><ref name="meshb.nlm.nih.gov">{{Cite web |title=Digestive System MeSH Descriptor Data |url=https://meshb.nlm.nih.gov/record/ui?ui=D004064 |access-date=2022-12-12 |website=meshb.nlm.nih.gov}}</ref>

The digestive system functions to move material through the GI tract via [[peristalsis]], break down that material via [[digestion]], absorb nutrients for use throughout the body, and remove waste from the body via [[defecation]].<ref name="meshb.nlm.nih.gov" /> Physicians who specialize in the medical specialty of gastroenterology are called gastroenterologists or sometimes ''GI doctors''.

Some of the most common conditions managed by gastroenterologists include [[gastroesophageal reflux disease]], [[gastrointestinal bleeding]], [[irritable bowel syndrome]], inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which includes [[Crohn's disease]] and [[ulcerative colitis]], [[peptic ulcer disease]], gallbladder and biliary tract disease, [[hepatitis]], [[pancreatitis]], [[colitis]], [[Colorectal cancer|colon polyps and cancer]], nutritional problems, and many more.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Chapter 1: All Digestive Diseases {{!}} NIDDK |url=https://www.niddk.nih.gov/about-niddk/strategic-plans-reports/burden-of-digestive-diseases-in-united-states/all-digestive-diseases |access-date=2022-12-08 |website=National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases |language=en-US}}</ref>

== History ==
[[File:Bozzini Lichtleiter.jpg|thumb|Drawings of Bozzini's "Lichtleiter", an early [[endoscope]]]]
Citing from [[Ancient Egypt|Egyptian]] [[papyrus|papyri]], [[John F. Nunn]] identified significant knowledge of gastrointestinal diseases among practicing physicians during the periods of the [[pharaoh]]s. [[Irynakhty]], of the tenth dynasty, {{circa}} 2125 B.C., was a [[court physician]] specializing in gastroenterology, sleeping, and [[proctology]].<ref>Nunn JF. Ancient Egyptian Medicine. 2002. {{ISBN|0-8061-3504-2}}.</ref>

Among [[ancient Greece|ancient Greeks]], [[Hippocrates]] attributed [[digestion]] to [[concoction]]{{dn|date=October 2025}}. [[Galen]]'s concept of the [[stomach]] having four ''faculties'' was widely accepted up to modernity in the seventeenth century.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=van den Tweel |first1=Jan G. |last2=Taylor |first2=Clive R. |date=April 2013 |title=The rise and fall of the autopsy |url=http://link.springer.com/10.1007/s00428-013-1387-3 |journal=Virchows Archiv |language=en |volume=462 |issue=4 |pages=371–380 |doi=10.1007/s00428-013-1387-3 |pmid=23468067 |issn=0945-6317}}</ref>

=== 18th century ===
* [[Italy|Italian]] [[Lazzaro Spallanzani]] (1729–99) was among the early [[physician]]s to disregard Galen's theories, and in 1780 he gave experimental proof on the action of [[gastric juice]] on foodstuffs.
* In 1767, [[Germany|German]] [[Johann Georg Ritter von Zimmermann|Johann von Zimmermann]] wrote an important work on [[dysentery]].
* In 1777, [[Maximilian Stoll]] of [[Vienna]] described [[gallbladder cancer|cancer of the gallbladder]].<ref>Edgardo Rivera, MD
James L. Abbruzzese, MD; Pancreatic, Hepatic, and Biliary Carcinomas, Medical Oncology: A Comprehensive Review [http://www.cancernetwork.com/textbook/morev16.htm/] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071212230048/http://www.cancernetwork.com/textbook/morev16.htm/|date=2007-12-12}}</ref><ref>DeStoll M: Rationis Mendendi, in Nosocomio Practico vendobonensi.
Part 1 LugduniBatavarum, Haak et Socios et A et J Honkoop 1788, {{OCLC|23625746}}</ref>

=== 19th century ===
* In 1805, [[Philipp Bozzini]] made the first attempt to observe inside the living human body using a tube he named ''Lichtleiter'' (light-guiding instrument) to examine the [[urinary tract]], the [[rectum]], and the [[human pharynx|pharynx]]. This is the earliest description of [[endoscopy]].<ref>{{cite journal |last=Gilger |first=MA |date=October 2001 |title=Gastroenterologic endoscopy in children: past, present, and future |journal=Current Opinion in Pediatrics |volume=13 |issue=5 |pages=429–34 |doi=10.1097/00008480-200110000-00008 |pmid=11801888 |s2cid=39462852}}</ref><ref>[http://www.olympus-global.com/en/corc/history/endo/ The Origin of Endoscopes, Olympus history]</ref>
* [[Charles Emile Troisier]] described the enlargement of [[lymph node]]s in abdominal cancer.<ref>[[Anton Sebastian]], ''A Dictionary of the History of Medicine'', {{ISBN|1-85070-021-4}}</ref>
* In 1823, [[William Prout]] discovered that [[stomach]] juices contain [[hydrochloric acid]].<ref>''Prout, W.'' On the nature of the acid and saline matters usually existing in the stomachs of animals.&nbsp;– Philos. Transactions, 1824, 1, 45.</ref>
* In 1833, [[William Beaumont]] published ''Experiments and Observations on the Gastric Juice and the Physiology of Digestion'' following years of experimenting on test subject [[Alexis St. Martin]].
* In 1868, [[Adolf Kussmaul]], a well-known German physician, developed the [[gastroscope]]. He perfected the technique on a [[Sword swallowing|sword swallower]].
* In 1871, at the society of physicians in Vienna, [[Karl Stoerk|Carl Stoerk]] demonstrated an esophagoscope made of two telescopic metal tubes, initially devised by Waldenburg in 1870.
* In 1876, [[Karl Wilhelm von Kupffer]] described the properties of some liver cells now called [[Kupffer cell]]s.
* In 1883, [[Hugo Kronecker]] and [[Samuel James Meltzer]] studied oesophageal [[Esophageal motility study|manometry]] in humans.
[[Image:McClendon pH-probe.png|60px|thumb|[[Jesse Francis McClendon|McClendon's]] pH-probe]]

=== 20th century ===
* In 1915, [[Jesse Francis McClendon|Jesse McClendon]] tested the [[Gastric acid|acidity]] of the human stomach ''[[in situ]]''.<ref>McClendon J. F. New hydrogen electrodes and rapid methods of determining hydrogen ion concentrations.&nbsp;– Amer. J. Physoil., 1915, 38, 2, 180.</ref>
* In 1921–22, [[Walter C. Alvarez|Walter Alvarez]] did the first [[electrogastrogram|electrogastrography]] research.<ref>{{cite journal |vauthors=Alvarez WC |year=1922 |title=The electrogastrogram and what it shows |url=https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/229618 |journal=JAMA: The Journal of the American Medical Association |publisher=JAMA |volume=78 |issue=15 |page=1116 |doi=10.1001/jama.1922.02640680020008 |access-date=22 May 2020|url-access=subscription }}</ref>
* [[Rudolf Schindler (doctor)|Rudolf Schindler]] described many important diseases involving the human digestive system during [[World War I]] in his illustrated textbook and is portrayed by some as the "father of gastroscopy". He and [[Georg Wolf]] developed a semiflexible gastroscope in 1932.
* In 1932, [[Burrill Bernard Crohn]] described [[Crohn's disease]].
* In 1957, [[Basil Hirschowitz]] introduced the first prototype of a [[Optical fiber#Other uses|fibreoptic]] gastroscope.

=== 21st century ===
* In 2005, [[Barry Marshall]] and [[Robin Warren]] of Australia were awarded the [[Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine]] for their discovery of ''[[Helicobacter pylori]]'' (1982/1983) and its role in [[peptic ulcer disease]]. James Leavitt assisted in their research, but the Nobel Prize is not awarded posthumously so he was not included in the award.

== Disease classification ==
1. '''International Classification of Diseases ([[ICD]] 2007)/WHO classification''':
* Chapter XI, Diseases of the digestive system,(K00-K93)
2. '''[[Medical Subject Headings|MeSH]] subject Heading''':
* Gastroenterology (G02.403.776.409.405)
* Gastroenterological diseases(C06.405)
3. '''[[National Library of Medicine]] Catalogue (NLM classification 2006)''':
* Digestive system(W1) {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041019173242/http://wwwcf.nlm.nih.gov/class/class_wi.html#WI |date=2004-10-19 }}

== Procedures ==

=== Colonoscopy ===
{{See also|Colonoscopy}}
[[File:Diagram_showing_a_colonoscopy_CRUK_060.svg|thumb|Diagram of a colonoscopy procedure]]
A procedure using a [[Endoscope|long thin tube with a camera]] passed through the [[Human anus|anus]] to visualize the [[rectum]] and the entire length of the colon. It is performed to screen for [[Colorectal polyp|colon polyps]] and [[Colorectal cancer]], or to evaluate symptoms such as [[rectal bleeding]], [[Melena|dark stools]], changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss. During the procedure, the patient is usually [[Sedation|sedated]] and the colon is examined for polyps, bleeding, or abnormal tissue; a [[biopsy]] or [[Polypectomy|polyp removal]] may be performed. The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes, followed by a brief observation period. Complications can include bloating, cramping, reaction to anesthesia, bleeding, and [[Gastrointestinal perforation|perforation]] of the colon.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Colonoscopy {{!}} NIDDK |url=https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/colonoscopy |access-date=2022-12-08 |website=National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Sigmoidoscopy ===
{{See also|Sigmoidoscopy}}
[[File:Diagram_showing_sigmoidoscopy.svg|thumb|Sigmoidoscopy]]
A procedure similar to a colonoscopy using a long thin tube with a camera (scope) passed through the [[Human anus|anus]] but only intended to visualize the [[rectum]] and the [[Sigmoid colon|last part of the colon]] closest to the rectum. All aspects of the procedure are the same as for a colonoscopy with the exception that this procedure only lasts ten to twenty minutes and is done without sedation. This usually allows for the patient to return to normal activities immediately after the procedure is finished.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Flexible Sigmoidoscopy {{!}} NIDDK |url=https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/flexible-sigmoidoscopy |access-date=2022-12-09 |website=National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) ===
{{See also|Esophagogastroduodenoscopy}}
[[File:Endoscopy_start.jpg|thumb|Endoscopy]]
A flexible endoscope is passed through the mouth to examine the [[esophagus]], [[stomach]], and [[duodenum]]. EGD is used to evaluate symptoms such as persistent [[heartburn]], [[Dysphagia|difficulty swallowing]], upper-GI bleeding (e.g., [[Hematemesis|vomiting blood]] or [[Melena|black stools]]), unexplained anemia or weight loss, and abnormal imaging or lab results. The procedure allows direct visualization, [[biopsy]] for histology, and therapies including [[Banding (medical)|banding]] of [[esophageal varices]] and [[Esophageal dilatation|dilation]] of strictures. Most examinations take about 15–30 minutes. Common transient effects are [[bloating]] and a sore throat; uncommon risks include reactions to sedation, bleeding, and [[Gastrointestinal perforation|perforation]] of the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Upper GI Endoscopy {{!}} NIDDK |url=https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/upper-gi-endoscopy |access-date=2022-12-09 |website=National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) ===
{{See also|Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography}}
[[File:Detailed_diagram_of_an_endoscopic_retrograde_cholangio_pancreatography_(ERCP)_CRUK_001.svg|thumb|ERCP]]
A procedure using a [[Endoscope|long thin tube with a camera]] passed into the [[Duodenum|first part of the small intestine]] to locate, diagnose, and treat disorders of the [[Bile duct|bile]] and [[pancreatic duct]]s. These ducts can be narrowed or blocked by [[gallstone]]s, infection, inflammation, [[pancreatic pseudocyst]]s, or tumors, causing symptoms such as back pain or [[Jaundice|jaundice]] and laboratory findings such as elevated [[Hyperbilirubinemia in adults|bilirubin]]. Under fluoroscopic guidance, contrast is injected into the ducts to visualize the anatomy; treatments can include [[Biliary endoscopic sphincterotomy|sphincterotomy]], stone extraction, dilation of strictures, [[stent]] placement, and tissue [[biopsy]]. Complications may include [[pancreatitis]], infection (e.g., [[Ascending cholangitis]]), bleeding, reaction to anesthesia, and perforation of the duodenum or ducts.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) {{!}} NIDDK |url=https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/endoscopic-retrograde-cholangiopancreatography |access-date=2022-12-12 |website=National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Ultrasound and Bowel Ultrasound ===

[[Ultrasound]] has become a standard tool in many medical settings. Its widespread availability, affordability, safety, and lack of radiation have established it as a common initial diagnostic method. In gastroenterology, ultrasound is highly accurate in diagnosing various conditions (e.g., [[Appendicitis]], [[Diverticulitis]]). Furthermore, bowel ultrasound is crucial for identifying and managing [[Inflammatory bowel disease]] and their complications, including the early detection of [[Crohn's disease]] recurrence after surgery, as highlighted in the ECCO–ESGAR guidelines.<ref>Maaser, C.; Sturm, A.; Vavricka, S.R.; Kucharzik, T.; Fiorino, G.; Annese, V.; Calabrese, E.; Baumgart, D.C.; Bettenworth, D.; Borralho Nunes, P.; et al. ECCO-ESGAR Guideline for Diagnostic Assessment in IBD Part 1: Initial diagnosis, monitoring of known IBD, detection of complications. J. Crohn’s Colitis 2019, 13, 144–164.</ref> Modern ultrasound techniques like contrast-enhanced ultrasound offer real-time functional and vascular information, improving diagnostic capabilities. Additionally, operative abdominal ultrasound is increasingly important in minimally invasive interventions, including guided [[Biopsy|biopsies]], drainage, and thermal ablation of liver lesions. 
Nevertheless, the accuracy of ultrasound is operator-dependent, and inadequate training can lead to diagnostic errors.<ref>Wüstner, M.; Radzina, M.; Calliada, F.; Cantisani, V.; Havre, R.F.; Jenderka, K.V.; Kabaalioğlu, A.; Kocian, M.; Kollmann, C.; Künzel, J.; et al. Professional Standards in Medical Ultrasound—EFSUMB Position Paper (Short Version)—General Aspects. Ultraschall Med. 2022, 43, 456–463. </ref> The European Federation of Societies for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (EFSUMB) has established guidelines to define professional standards and the minimum training needed for ultrasound examinations. These guidelines outline three levels of expertise based on anatomical knowledge, the ability to assess diseases using ultrasound, and the volume of exams performed (at least 300 per year for level 1).<ref>Wüstner, M.; Radzina, M.; Calliada, F.; Cantisani, V.; Havre, R.F.; Jenderka, K.V.; Kabaalioğlu, A.; Kocian, M.; Kollmann, C.; Künzel, J.; et al. Professional Standards in Medical Ultrasound—EFSUMB Position Paper (Short Version)—General Aspects. Ultraschall Med. 2022, 43, 456–463</ref>
A recent study indicated that the majority of young Italian gastroenterologists (<40 y.o.) (58.9%) acquired their ultrasound skills during their gastroenterology training. Throughout their training, participants performed a median of 320 abdominal ultrasound examinations and 240 bowel ultrasound examinations.<ref>Cortellini F, Fichera A, Guarino AD, Laterza L, Alemanni LV, Lopetuso L, Marasco G, Costantino A. Abdominal and Bowel Ultrasound Knowledge Among Young Gastroenterologists: Results of an Italian Survey. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2025; 14(8):2693. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14082693</ref>

== Disorders ==

=== Esophagus ===

==== Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) ====
{{See also|Gastroesophageal reflux disease}}[[File:GERD.png|thumb|Gastroesophageal reflux]]A condition that is a result of stomach contents consistently coming back up into the esophagus causing troublesome symptoms or complications.<ref name="Kahrilas-2008">{{Cite journal |last1=Kahrilas |first1=Peter J. |last2=Shaheen |first2=Nicholas J. |last3=Vaezi |first3=Michael F. |date=October 2008 |title=American Gastroenterological Association Institute Technical Review on the Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease |url=https://www.gastrojournal.org/article/S0016-5085(08)01605-3/abstract |journal=Gastroenterology |language=English |volume=135 |issue=4 |pages=1392–1413.e5 |doi=10.1053/j.gastro.2008.08.044 |issn=0016-5085 |pmid=18801365 |doi-access=free}}</ref> Symptoms are considered troublesome based on how disruptive they are to a patient's daily life and well-being. This definition was standardized by the Montreal Consensus in 2006.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Vakil |first1=Nimish |last2=van Zanten |first2=Sander V. |last3=Kahrilas |first3=Peter |last4=Dent |first4=John |last5=Jones |first5=Roger |last6=Global Consensus Group |date=August 2006 |title=The Montreal definition and classification of gastroesophageal reflux disease: a global evidence-based consensus |journal=The American Journal of Gastroenterology |volume=101 |issue=8 |pages=1900–1920; quiz 1943 |doi=10.1111/j.1572-0241.2006.00630.x |issn=0002-9270 |pmid=16928254|s2cid=25653840 }}</ref> Symptoms include a [[heartburn|painful feeling]] in the middle of the chest and feeling stomach contents [[Regurgitation (digestion)|coming back up]] into the mouth. Other symptoms include chest pain, nausea, [[Dysphagia|difficulty swallowing]], [[Odynophagia|painful swallowing]], coughing, and hoarseness.<ref name="National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases">{{Cite web |title=Definition & Facts for GER & GERD {{!}} NIDDK |url=https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults/definition-facts |access-date=2022-12-08 |website=National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases |language=en-US}}</ref> Risk factors include obesity, pregnancy, smoking, [[hiatal hernia]], certain medications, and certain foods. Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms and medical history, with further testing only after treatment has been ineffective. Further diagnosis can be achieved by [[Esophageal pH monitoring|measuring]] how much acid enters the esophagus or looking into the esophagus with a [[Esophagogastroduodenoscopy|scope]]. Treatment and management options<ref name="Kahrilas-2008" /> include lifestyle modifications, medications, and surgery if there is no improvement with other interventions. Lifestyle modifications include not lying down for three hours after eating, lying down on the left side, elevating head while laying by elevating head of the bed or using extra pillows, losing weight, stopping smoking, and avoiding coffee, mint, alcohol, chocolate, fatty foods, acidic foods, and spicy foods. Medications include [[antacid]]s, [[Proton-pump inhibitor|proton pump inhibitors]], [[H2 receptor antagonist|H2 receptor blockers]]. Surgery is usually a [[Nissen fundoplication]] and is performed by a surgeon. Complications of longstanding GERD can include [[Esophagitis|inflammation of the esophagus]] that may cause bleeding or ulcer formation, [[Esophageal stricture|narrowing of the esophagus]] leading to swallowing issues, a change in the lining of the esophagus that can increase the chances of developing cancer ([[Barrett's esophagus]]), chronic cough, asthma, [[Laryngitis|inflammation of the larynx]] leading to hoarseness, and [[Acid erosion|wearing away]] of tooth enamel leading to dental issues.<ref name="Kahrilas-2008" /><ref name="National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases" />

==== Barrett's esophagus ====
{{See also|Barrett's esophagus}}
A condition in which the lining of the esophagus changes to look more like the lining of the intestine and increases the risk of developing [[esophageal cancer]].<ref name="Shaheen-2016">{{Cite journal |last1=Shaheen |first1=Nicholas J. |last2=Falk |first2=Gary W. |last3=Iyer |first3=Prasad G. |last4=Gerson |first4=Lauren B. |last5=American College of Gastroenterology |date=January 2016 |title=ACG Clinical Guideline: Diagnosis and Management of Barrett's Esophagus |journal=The American Journal of Gastroenterology |volume=111 |issue=1 |pages=30–50; quiz 51 |doi=10.1038/ajg.2015.322 |issn=1572-0241 |pmid=26526079|s2cid=2274838 |doi-access=free |pmc=10245082 }}</ref> There are no specific symptoms although symptoms of GERD may be present for years prior as it is associated with a 10–15% risk of Barrett's esophagus.<ref name="Shaheen-2016" /> Risk factors include chronic GERD for more than 5 years, being age 50 or older, being non-Hispanic white, being male, having a family history of this disorder, [[Abdominal obesity|belly fat]], and a history of smoking.<ref name="Muthusamy-2022">{{Cite journal |last1=Muthusamy |first1=V. Raman |last2=Wani |first2=Sachin |last3=Gyawali |first3=C. Prakash |last4=Komanduri |first4=Srinadh |last5=Bergman |first5=Jacques |last6=Canto |first6=Marcia I. |last7=Chak |first7=Amitabh |last8=Corley |first8=Douglas |last9=Falk |first9=Gary W. |last10=Fitzgerald |first10=Rebecca |last11=Haidry |first11=Rehan |last12=Haydek |first12=John M. |last13=Inadomi |first13=John |last14=Iyer |first14=Prasad G. |last15=Konda |first15=Vani |date=2022-12-01 |title=AGA Clinical Practice Update on New Technology and Innovation for Surveillance and Screening in Barrett's Esophagus: Expert Review |url=https://www.cghjournal.org/article/S1542-3565(22)00599-7/abstract |journal=Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology |language=English |volume=20 |issue=12 |pages=2696–2706.e1 |doi=10.1016/j.cgh.2022.06.003 |issn=1542-3565 |pmid=35788412 |doi-access=free|pmc=10203866 }}</ref>  Diagnosis can be made by looking into the esophagus with a [[Esophagogastroduodenoscopy|scope]] and possibly taking a [[biopsy]] of the lining of the esophagus. Treatment includes managing GERD, [[Radiofrequency ablation|destroying]] abnormal parts of the esophagus, [[Endoscopic mucosal resection|removing abnormal tissue]] in the esophagus, and [[Esophagectomy|removing part of the esophagus]] as performed by a general surgeon.<ref name="Shaheen-2016" /> Further management could include periodic surveillance with repeat scopes at certain intervals determined by the physician, likely not more frequently than every three to five years.<ref name="Muthusamy-2022" /> Complications from this disorder can result in a type of cancer called [[Esophageal cancer|esophageal adenocarcinoma]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition & Facts for Barrett's Esophagus {{!}} NIDDK |url=https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/barretts-esophagus/definition-facts |access-date=2022-12-08 |website=National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases |language=en-US}}</ref>

== Education and training ==

=== United States ===
Gastroenterology is a subspecialty of internal medicine and therefore requires three years of [[internal medicine]] [[Residency (medicine)|residency training]] followed by three additional years in a dedicated gastroenterology [[Fellowship (medicine)|fellowship]].<ref name="American College of Gastroenterology" /> This training is certified by the [[American Board of Internal Medicine]] (ABIM) and the [[American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine]] (AOBIM) and must be completed at a program accredited by the [[Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education]] (ACGME).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mission {{!}} ABIM.org |url=https://www.abim.org/about/mission/ |access-date=2022-12-08 |website=www.abim.org}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Board Policies |url=https://certification.osteopathic.org/internal-medicine/board-policies/ |access-date=2022-12-08 |website=American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The ACGME for Residents and Fellows |url=https://www.acgme.org/residents-and-fellows/the-acgme-for-residents-and-fellows/ |access-date=2022-12-08 |website=www.acgme.org |language=en}}</ref> Other national societies that oversee training include the [[American College of Gastroenterology]] (ACG), the [[American Gastroenterological Association]] (AGA), and the [[American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy]] (ASGE).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Program Director Resources |url=https://gi.org/trainees/program-director-resources/ |access-date=2022-12-08 |website=American College of Gastroenterology |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=About Us |url=https://gastro.org/about-aga/about-us/ |access-date=2022-12-08 |website=American Gastroenterological Association |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name="ASGE">{{Cite web |title=About ASGE |url=https://www.asge.org/home/about-asge |access-date=2022-12-08 |website=asge.org |language=en}}</ref>

== Scope of practice ==
Gastroenterologists see patients both in the clinic and the hospital setting. They can order diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and perform a number of diagnostic and [[Therapy|therapeutic]] procedures including [[colonoscopy]], [[esophagogastroduodenoscopy]] (EGD), [[endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography]] (ERCP), [[endoscopic ultrasound]] (EUS), and [[liver biopsy]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Gastroenterology |url=https://www.ama-assn.org/specialty/gastroenterology |access-date=11 July 2020 |publisher=American Medical Association}}</ref>

In Gastroenterology, as in other specialties, [[telehealth]] has led to a reshaping of healthcare systems by introducing new ways of providing care, facilitating access to services throughout the entire Countries.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Gellad |first1=Z. F. |last2=Diamond |first2=S. |last3=Crockett |first3=S. D. |last4=Cross |first4=R. K. |title=AGA Clinical Practice Update on Telemedicine in Gastroenterology: Commentary |journal=Gastroenterology |date=2023 |volume=164 |issue=4 |pages=690–695 |doi=10.1053/j.gastro.2022.12.043 |pmid=36775722}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Costantino |first1=A. |last2=Bortoluzzi |first2=F. |last3=Giuffrè |first3=M. |last4=Vassallo |first4=R. |last5=Montalbano |first5=L. M. |last6=Monica |first6=F. |last7=Canova |first7=D. |last8=Checchin |first8=D. |last9=Fedeli |first9=P. |last10=Marmo |first10=R. |last11=Elli |first11=L. |title=Correct use of telemedicine in gastroenterology, hepatology, and endoscopy during and after the COVID-19 pandemic: Recommendations from the Italian association of hospital gastroenterologists and endoscopists (AIGO) |journal=Digestive and Liver Disease |date=2021 |volume=53 |issue=10 |pages=1221–1227 |doi=10.1016/j.dld.2021.06.032 |pmid=34312103}}</ref>

=== Subspecialties ===
Some gastroenterology trainees will complete a "fourth-year" (although this is often their seventh year of graduate medical education) in transplant [[hepatology]], advanced interventional [[endoscopy]], [[inflammatory bowel disease]], [[motility]], or other topics.

Advanced endoscopy, sometimes called interventional or surgical endoscopy, is a sub-specialty of gastroenterology that focuses on advanced endoscopic techniques for the treatment of [[pancreatic disease|pancreatic]], [[hepatobiliary disease|hepatobiliary]], and [[gastrointestinal disease]]. Interventional gastroenterologists typically undergo an additional year of rigorous training in advanced endoscopic techniques including endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, endoscopic ultrasound-guided diagnostic and interventional procedures, and advanced [[resection (surgery)|resection]] techniques including [[endoscopic mucosal resection]] and [[endoscopic submucosal dissection]]. Additionally, the performance of endoscopic bariatric procedures is also performed by some advanced endoscopists.

'''[[Hepatology]]''', or '''hepatobiliary medicine''', encompasses the study of the [[liver]], [[pancreas]], and [[biliary tree]], and is traditionally considered a sub-specialty of gastroenterology, while '''[[proctology]]''' encompasses disorders of the [[Human anus|anus]], [[rectum]], and [[Large intestine|colon]] and is considered a sub-specialty of [[general surgery]].

== Professional organizations ==
* [[American College of Gastroenterology]] (ACG)<ref>{{Cite web |title=About ACG |url=https://gi.org/about/ |access-date=2022-12-16 |website=American College of Gastroenterology |language=en-US}}</ref> - was founded in 1932 by a group of 10 gastroenterologists in New York City and now consists of over 16,000 gastroenterologists from 86 countries. The ACG sponsors conferences regionally and nationally, publishes several journals including ''[[The American Journal of Gastroenterology]], [[Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology]], and ACG Case Reports Journal,'' hosts [[continuing medical education]] (CME) programs, supports initiatives for fellows-in-training, develops and promotes evidence-based guidelines, supports advocacy and public policy, and provides clinical research funding consisting of $27 million in research grants and career development awards ($2.2 million in 2022).<ref>{{Cite web |title=ACG at 90 Booklet |url=https://webfiles.gi.org/links/about/ACG_at_90_Booklet.pdf |access-date=16 December 2022 |website=www.gi.org |publisher=The American College of Gastroenterology}}</ref>
* [[American Gastroenterological Association]] (AGA)<ref>{{Cite web |title=American Gastroenterological Association |url=https://gastro.org/ |access-date=2022-12-16 |website=American Gastroenterological Association |language=en-US}}</ref> - was founded in 1897 and now includes over 16,000 members worldwide. Their mission statement reads "''Empowering clinicians and researchers to improve digestive health''." The AGA publishes two journals monthly titled ''[[Gastroenterology (journal)|Gastroenterology]]'' and ''[[Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology]]'', sponsors an annual meeting called Digestive Disease Week (DDW), provides more than $3 million each year in research grants to over 50 investigators through the AGA Research Foundation Awards Program ($2.56 million to 61 investigators in 2022), develops and promotes evidence-based guidelines, influences public policy through AGA's Congressional Advocates Program and the AGA political action committee (PAC), and supports a variety of educational opportunities including those that qualify for continuing medical education (CME) and maintenance of certification (MOC) credits.
* [[American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy]] (ASGE)<ref name="ASGE" /> - was founded in 1941 and now includes around 15,000 members worldwide. Their mission statement reads "''The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy is the global leader in advancing digestive care through education, advocacy and promotion of excellence and innovation in endoscopy''." The ASGE publishes a monthly journal titled ''[[Gastrointestinal Endoscopy]]'' (''GIE''), develops and promotes evidence-based guidelines, offers educational resources for its members, and provides advocacy resources for influencing public policy.
* [[World Gastroenterology Organisation]] (WGO)<ref>{{Cite web |title=World Gastroenterology Organisation (WGO) |url=https://www.worldgastroenterology.org/ |access-date=2022-12-16 |website=World Gastroenterology Organisation (WGO) |language=en}}</ref> - was founded in 1958 and consists of 119 Member Societies and 4 regional affiliated associations from around the world which represents a combined 60,000 individuals. The WGO mission statement reads "''To promote, to the general public and healthcare professional alike, an awareness of the worldwide prevalence and optimal care of gastrointestinal and liver disorders, and to improve care of these disorders, through the provision of high quality, accessible and independent education and training''." The WGO publishes a newsletter titled the electronic World Gastroenterology News (''e-WGN''), develops global guidelines, engages in advocacy through World Digestive Health Day (WDHD) held yearly on 29 May, and provides educational resources including 23 training centers around the world and a Train the Trainers (TTT) program.
* [[British Society of Gastroenterology]]
* [[United European Gastroenterology]] The United European Gastroenterology (UEG) was formally established in 1992. Over the years, UEG has grown significantly, establishing itself as a leading and prestigious medical specialty organization worldwide. UEG's mission is to advance the field of digestive diseases through prevention, research, diagnosis, treatment, and increased awareness. It unites over 50,000 professionals, including members from national and specialist societies, individual experts, and scientists in digestive health. UEG organizes the annual UEG Week, a major international gastroenterology congress. It also focuses on education, research support, and advocating for clinical standards and public health policies related to digestive diseases in Europe. UEG publishes the UEG Journal and the UEG White Book, which analyzes the burden and economic impact of digestive diseases in Europe.

== Academic journals ==
* ''[[The American Journal of Gastroenterology]]''
* ''[[Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology]]''
* ''[[Endoscopy (journal)|Endoscopy]]''
* ''[[Gastroenterology (journal)|Gastroenterology]]''
* ''[[Gastrointestinal Endoscopy]]''
* ''[[Gut (journal)|Gut]]''
* ''[[Inflammatory Bowel Diseases]]''
* ''[[Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology]]''
* ''[[Journal of Crohn's and Colitis]]''
* ''[[Neurogastroenterology & Motility]]''
* ''[[World Journal of Gastroenterology]]''

==References==
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[[Category:Gastroenterology| ]]