Endoscopic treatment for early Barrett's neoplasia - a Western perspective.

Abstract

Background: Barrett's oesophagus (BE) is the sole established precursor to oesophageal adenocarcinoma, with striking contrasts in its epidemiology and management between the East and the West.

Summary: This review, based on a structured literature search, examines the key divergences in endoscopic management: highlighting the Western emphasis on eradication therapy using ablation techniques such as radiofrequency ablation, contrasted with the Eastern expertise in advanced resection techniques including endoscopic submucosal dissection.

Key messages: Despite improving patient outcomes, significant challenges remain, including variable surveillance protocols, controversies regarding non-dysplastic BE and low-grade dysplasia, and optimal strategies for recurrent disease. As gastroesophageal reflux disease and long-segment BE rise in prevalence in the East, and Western proficiency in endoscopic submucosal dissection grows, these once-distinct approaches are poised to converge. As these treatment paradigms align, patients and clinicians alike stand to benefit from more effective, tailored care and better long-term outcomes.