[Gastroenterological surgical procedures using a flexible scope].

The past decade has witnessed revolutionary developments in the applications of operative endoscopy, and many new techniques have replaced conventional surgical procedures. With the modern flexible instruments available for gastro-intestinal endoscopy, it is possible to reach the oesophagus, stomach, duodenum, colon and ileum. The range of treatment options has been successively broadened by the combination of endoscopy with such procedures as diathermy, laser, electrohydraulic shock waves and ultrasonography.