Pediatric Endoscopy in Asia Pacific:Report from the Asian Pan-Pacific Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition
10.5223/pghn.2025.28.2.76
- Author:
Andy DARMA
1
;
Katsuhiro ARAI
;
Jia-feng WU
;
Nuthapong UKARAPOL
;
Shin-ichiro HAGIWARA
;
Seak Hee OH
;
Suporn TREEPONGKARUNA
;
Author Information
1. Department of Child Health, Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition
2025;28(2):76-85
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:Pediatric gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy significantly contributes to the diagnosis and management of GI diseases in children. Global data on pediatric GI endoscopy in the Asia-Pacific region are limited. We aimed to report the findings of a regional survey on pediatric endoscopy in the Asia-Pacific region.
Methods:A questionnaire-based survey involving GI endoscopy centers in 13 Asia-Pacific countries (June to November 2021). The questionnaires included annual procedure volumes (from basic diagnostics to advanced therapeutic endoscopy), endoscopists, sedation procedures, and national training programs.
Results:A total of 162 GI endoscopy centers completed the survey. All centers performed basic endoscopies (esophagogastroduodenoscopy and ileocolonoscopy); however, 45.1% and 59.1% of the centers performed less than 50 esophagogastroduodenoscopies and ileocolonoscopies per year, respectively. Small bowel evaluation (capsule endoscopy or balloon-assisted enteroscopy) was performed in 59.3% of the centers. Foreign body removal, polypectomy, and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy were performed in 89.5%, 85.8%, and 52.5% of centers, respectively. Endoscopic hemostatic interventions, which are lifesaving procedures, included glue injection (30.9%), hemostasis of nonvariceal bleeding (65.4%), and endoscopic variceal ligation (70.4%). Pediatric GI endoscopy is performed not only by pediatric gastroenterologists but also by adult gastroenterologists in 21–50% of centers for many kinds of procedures. Sedation was provided by anesthesiologists in 65.4% of the centers. Most centers offer both adult and pediatric endoscopy training.
Conclusion:The study highlights regional disparities in pediatric GI endoscopy services. It emphasizes the need for expanded pediatric GI training and improved access to therapeutic endoscopy, particularly for life-saving procedures.
