Gastroenterology is one of the branches of medicine that can profit most from modem technology, whether this involves the advances in diagnostic instrumentation, in data and image processing and management, or in computer applications like expert systems. To evaluate current status of imaging, computerization, and expert systems in gastroenterology, a group of clinical researchers and computer experts met in Bologna, Italy, for several days' discussion. The presentations at this symposium are introduced in this volume, which we believe to be a useful contribution to a specialization of great importance for health care as a whole. Bologna, March 1991 P. R. DAL MONTE Contents Imaging in Gastroenterology A. TORSOLI ......... . 1 Experience with a Hospital-Wide Image Management and Communication System: Is Total Digital Radiology Possible? S.K. MUN (With 1 Figure) ... 3 New Approaches to Endoscopy with the Electronic Videoendoscope M. SCHAPIRO .... ......... . 15 Intraoperative Videocholangioscopy A. MONTORI, L. MASONI, and L. DE ANNA 19 Images and Communication F. VICARI .......... . 22 Didactic Potential of Videoendoscopy F. COSENTINO, E. MORANDI, G. RUBIS PASSONI, F. DI PRISCO, and S. TUCCIMEI ........................... 24 Interactivity Between Image Processing Systems and Videoendoscopy M.A. PISTOIA, S. GUADAGNI, L. LOMBARDI, F. PISTOIA, M. CATARCI, and I. CARBONI. . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Endoscopic Laser Therapy of Colorectal Tumors 30 P. SPINELLI, M. DAL FANTE, and E. MERONI ...