Advances in endoscopic imaging: Advantages and limitations

Abstract

Endoscopic imaging is emerging beyond the confines of traditional white light endoscopy. There is a plethora of advanced imaging technologies which aim to improve visualization of the vascular network and surface texture of the mucosa and thereby improve tissue characterization, differentiation, and diagnosis. These include the wide field technologies like chromoendoscopy, narrow band imaging and autofluorescence endoscopy and point enhancement or virtual histology technologies like endocytoscopy and confocal endomicroscopy. This review attempts to define the current status of these newer technologies and the advantages and limitations in current clinical practice.