Endoscopic full-thickness gastric biopsy: Ready for prime time?

Gastroparesis is a neuromuscular disease of the gastrointestinal tract that presents with a significant alteration in the normal function of the stomach. The condition presents with symptoms of early satiety, bloating, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, which are known to affect patient’s nutritional status and quality of life. Understanding of the disease and its underlying cellular changes has evolved with ability to acquire deep gastric layers and with progress of histopathological evaluation of gastric tissue. Despite considerable progress made to date, the pathophysiology of the disease remains poorly understood. Consequently, modalities of treatment are still limited. Recent advancements in minimally invasive endoscopy have allowed deviation from the traditional surgical approach to endoscopic full-thickness biopsy. Their safety and effectiveness profile render significant potential for becoming the new standard in deep tissue procurement. We review current techniques of endoscopic full-thickness resection used for diagnostic purposes.