This interdisciplinary journal is unique in its field as it covers the principles of both gastrointestinal medicine and surgery required for treating abdominal diseases. In each issue invited reviews provide a comprehensive overview of one selected topic. Thus, a sound background of the state of the art in clinical practice and research is provided. A panel of specialists in gastroenterology, surgery, radiology, and pathology discusses different approaches to diagnosis and treatment of the topic covered in the respective issue. Original articles, case reports, and commentaries make for further interesting reading.