Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is an established technique for the endoscopic therapy of dysplastic and early cancerous lesions throughout the gastrointestinal tract. The procedure requires both a sophisticated knowledge for lesion characterization and high-level endoscopic skills. As a result, the learning curve is very steep and, in Japan, it takes years to gain proficiency under the traditional Master-Apprentice teaching model. At present, as a result of multiple limitations, this training model is not applicable to the USA. Nevertheless, a unique, multipronged, stepwise approach has emerged as a viable pathway to train US endoscopists in ESD. Although this approach deserves refinement, it has already led to the expansion of ESD in the USA, has contributed to the widening of the indications for ESD, and has further developed ESD techniques. Multiple challenges remain, but they can be overcome by active collaboration between Japanese and US endoscopists and professional societies. The robust interest in ESD in the USA has drawn industry attention with a few innovations already coming to fruition and many more in development.
Keywords: USA; West; endoscopic submucosal dissection; learning curve; training program.
© 2018 Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society.