Endoscopy in the diagnosis and management of motility disorders

Abstract

Background: Gastrointestinal illness may result from either an underlying structural abnormality (e.g. neoplastic obstruction), or a functional disorder (e.g. motor diarrhea), or both (e.g. achalasia with squamous esophageal cancer).

Aims: The purpose of this study was to highlight the potential value and role of endoscopy in the recognition and management of patients with functional and motility disorders.

Methods: We performed a literature review in PubMed.

Results: Diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy may be under-used by motility-oriented gastroenterologists; in contrast, motility and other functional studies may be under-used by endoscopists. Yet, many areas of cross-exchange exist.

Conclusions: This review aims to guide the appropriate indications for the use of endoscopy in diagnosing and treating functional GI and motility disorders and serve as a bridge and a forum of exchange between endoscopists and motility specialists.