Software Tools in Endoscopy - Nice to Have or Essential?

Background: Documentation of findings and of the treatment implications resulting from them is one of the central tasks involved in medical work. The introduction of software tools for managing and providing technical support for this task is a logical development. Methods: A literature search was conducted in September 2015 using PubMed and the search terms ‘gastrointestinal endoscopy AND electronic documentation' and ‘software tools AND gastrointestinal endoscopy AND documentation'. Results: The requirements in relation to documentation, patient information and sedation, dealing with histological findings, materials logistics, recording video documents, and hygiene documentation are discussed. Conclusion: Software tools are essential for managing basic documentation requirements. However, for many aspects of the documentation required in a modern endoscopy department, there are various - and sometimes substantial - gaps in the programs currently available. More intensive discussions need to take place regarding existing gaps and requirements, both with the suppliers concerned and among colleagues and specialist societies.