Published online Dec 25, 2015. doi: 10.4253/wjge.v7.i19.1306
Peer-review started: June 3, 2015
First decision: August 8, 2015
Revised: October 16, 2015
Accepted: November 13, 2015
Article in press: November 17, 2015
Published online: December 25, 2015
Processing time: 202 Days and 16 Hours
Methods to assess, access and treat pathology within the gastrointestinal tract continue to evolve with video endoscopy replacing radiology as the gold standard. Whilst endoscope technology develops further with the advent of newer higher resolution chips, an array of adjuncts has been developed to enhance endoscopy in other ways; most notable is the use of magnets. Magnets are utilised in many areas, ranging from endoscopic training, lesion resection, aiding manoeuvrability of capsule endoscopes, to assisting in easy placement of tubes for nutritional feeding. Some of these are still at an experimental stage, whilst others are being increasingly incorporated in our everyday practice.
Core tip: Magnetic technology is being incorporated into many aspects of endoscopy from diagnostic procedures to assisting in therapeutic interventions. Here we summarise some of the more exciting innovations and the potential future roles magnets will play in this field.