Paediatric digestive endoscopy: From conventional endoscopy to endoscopic ultrasound and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography.

Digestive endoscopy is widely performed in clinical practice, including in children, and has revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of many gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Interventional procedures are increasingly utilized, particularly for hepatobiliary and pancreatic diseases. However, only a limited number of gastroenterologists are trained and experienced to perform endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic ultrasound in pediatric patients. While GI endoscopic emergencies in children are uncommon, they can be serious. Effective care demands true multidisciplinary teamwork, with close and ongoing collaboration between gastroenterologists, anesthetists, and the pediatric team especially in centres where pediatric endoscopy specialists are not available. This mini-review outlines current practices in pediatric digestive endoscopy and explores recent advances in interventional endoscopy compared to adult patients.