Endoscopy in the early diagnosis of surgical diseases of the digestive tract

Digestive endoscopy has emerged as a pivotal tool in the early diagnosis of surgical diseases of the digestive tract, offering the potential to detect lesions at curable stages and guide less invasive treatment strategies. This study presents a literature-based analysis aimed at evaluating the role of endoscopy in identifying gastrointestinal conditions that may require surgical intervention. A systematic search was conducted in SciELO, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library using the descriptors Endoscopy, Early Diagnosis, and Digestive System Diseases. Original research articles in English, Portuguese, and Spanish focusing on the diagnostic utility of endoscopy in gastrointestinal diseases with surgical potential were included. The analysis revealed that endoscopic techniques, including conventional endoscopy, capsule endoscopy, and endoscopic ultrasound, improve early lesion detection, enhance diagnostic accuracy, and support timely therapeutic decision-making. Advanced imaging methods and emerging artificial intelligence tools further increase detection rates and optimize clinical outcomes. Overall, the evidence indicates that endoscopy not only anticipates the diagnosis of surgical diseases but also influences treatment planning, reduces the need for extensive surgery, and improves patient prognosis. Maintaining technical quality, adopting new technologies responsibly, and integrating endoscopy into multidisciplinary care pathways are essential for maximizing its clinical impact.