Charles J. Kahi, MD, MSCR, Editor

A well-performed, high-quality colonoscopy prevents colorectal cancer and saves lives. Far from merely being a stagnant medical procedure, colonoscopy is an integrated scientific field in constant dynamic evolution. Recent progress has included advanced resection techniques, which have pushed the boundary of what can effectively and safely be accomplished during colonoscopy, new accessories and imaging technologies to allow better detection and characterization of colon neoplasms, improvements in bowel preparation to improve mucosal visibility and patient tolerability, more effective recognition and management of complications, new teaching and training approaches, and platform and device innovations. These positive developments have not been without accompanying controversy: recent evidence shows decreased colonoscopy protection against right-sided colorectal cancer, and increased recognition that this is largely due to operator-dependent factors, notably high variability in the detection and complete resection of precancerous polyps. Ongoing quality initiatives aim to identify and correct the causes of this variability and highlight the importance of fundamentals, such as optimal colonoscope withdrawal and mucosal inspection techniques, vigilance and recognition of non-polypoid and serrated neoplasia, and effective and complete polypectomy.

This volume aims to summarize these exciting developments in the field of colonoscopy, provide an overview of the current state of the art and current controversies and challenges, and hopefully inspire readers to share the passion, pick up the torch, and contribute to advancing the field.

It has been a personal pleasure and privilege for me to collaborate with some of the world’s foremost experts in colonoscopy and polypectomy. I am indebted to them for their expertise, dedication, and inspiring teaching; this work would not have otherwise been possible. Finally, I would like to thank Kerry Holland and the staff at Elsevier for their professional oversight of the publication process.