This interactive course explores why optimising polyp detection is central to high-quality colonoscopy and its direct impact on morbidity and mortality. Designed for general gastroenterologists and young endoscopists, the course addresses key quality indicators, bowel preparation, scoping techniques, and the integration of AI for improved detection. Participants will learn to interpret and apply optical diagnosis systems (NICE, WASP, LST-classification, BLINC) and to choose appropriate therapeutic strategies tailored to polyp type and patient context. Surveillance intervals and outcome factors, including family history and syndromes, will be discussed in line with ESGE guidelines. Case-based discussions will focus on communication with patients regarding diagnosis and management. By combining expert testimony, videos, and practical strategies, the course aims to improve participants’ endoscopic practice, ensuring earlier detection, appropriate treatment, and better long-term outcomes.

Target Audience:

• Gastroenterologists (in training)
• Other physicians and surgeons
• Nurses
• Medical students

Bowel function is significantly affected after rectal surgery. While sphincter-preserving techniques aim to maintain anal continence, many patients experience a spectrum of bowel dysfunction, collectively known as Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS). LARS includes symptoms such as incontinence, constipation, urgency, and stool clustering, which can severely impact a patient’s quality of life. The prevalence of LARS is alarmingly high, affecting a majority of patients, and symptoms can persist for years after surgical treatment.

Target audience

• Gastroenterologists
• Colorectal surgeons
• Oncologists
• Nurses/Stoma therapists
• Primary care physicians

This course builds on foundational concepts to examine contemporary mechanisms driving GORD phenotypes. We revisit key epidemiological and clinical distinctions before exploring gastric physiology, including postprandial acid–bile dynamics, H. pylori-related acid output, motility patterns, obesity-related changes, and post-surgical anatomy. Oesophagogastric junction competence (LES pressure, TLESRs, hiatal hernia) and refluxate characteristics (acidic to gaseous; PPI-modified) are discussed with emphasis on symptom generation. We detail epithelial biology, micro- and macroinflammatory responses across NERD and erosive disease, and advances in nociceptive signalling, receptor expression, central modulation, and hypervigilance. Key clinical studies, cytokine-driven pathways, and emerging therapeutic approaches are highlighted. The course concludes with implications for diagnosis, phenotype-guided management, and outstanding research questions.