Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery.

In this issue of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) introduces a new series of concise reviews designed to familiarize the reader with novel endoscopic technologies likely to have an impact on patient care as the technology progresses. Like the familiar Technology Status Evaluation Reports, these reviews are generated by the ASGE Technology Committee and are edited and approved by the ASGE Governing Board. Topics will generally include devices or techniques not yet approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or widely available in clinical practice. The goal is to provide a brief overview of the technology, the current status of concept or clinical data, current obstacles to dissemination into practice, and proposals for future studies. It is anticipated that many of these technologies will eventually become integrated into the practice of GI endoscopy, and the reviews serve as an educational platform from which to follow future developments. As with any pioneering venture, the frontier is harsh. Some technologies will fall short, and these eventual failures may be anticipated based on some of the obstacles presented. The overriding goal of any emerging endoscopic technology is to improve technical performance, safety, and clinical outcomes relative to contemporary systems. Adoption of any of these technologies in routine practice will eventually require evidence based on these principles. Although numerous technologies are in the experimental or proof-of-concept stage, the Report on Emerging Technology reviews will focus on devices and techniques with the greatest and the most immediate potential to impact the practice of GI endoscopy. As the leader in the practice of GI endoscopy, the ASGE will strive to monitor these emerging technologies by providing these concise and directed reviews so that clinicians, researchers, and endoscopists ot the future can direct their perspective on the respective field as it matures. It is often stated that the future is bright. However, as all endoscopists realize, it is not only important for it to be brightdthe future must also be in focus. William M. Tierney, MD Chair, ASGE Technology Committee