|
Endoscopy |
Details
|
Endoscopy is a procedure in which examinations of internal structure using an endoscope (fiber-optic viewing table) is performed. When passed through a person’s mouth, an endoscope may be used to test the esophagus (called esophagoscopy) and the small intestines (upper GI endoscopy). When passed through the individual’s anus, an endoscope may be used to test the lower part of the large intestine (sigmoidoscopy) and rectum, and the whole large intestine (called colonscopy). Endoscope size ranges in diameter from about a quarter inch to approx. half an inch and ranges in length from about 1 foot to about 5 feet. Fiber-optic video systems allow the endoscopes to be flexible while providing both a viewing system and a lighting source. Most of the endoscopes also have small clippers to remove tissue samples and an electric probe to kill the defected tissues. A physician gets a good view of the digestive system lining with an endoscope. A doctor may see parts of ulcers, irritation, defected tissue growth, and inflammations. Generally he or she may take a sample for testing. An endoscope may also be useful for treatment. A physician may pass various kinds of instruments through a small channel in the endoscopes. Electrocautery may be used to remove small growths, stop bleeding, or close off the vessel of blood; and needles may be used to inject medications into esophageal varices and stop their bleedings. Before having an endoscopy through the mouth, an individual should avoid food for a few hours. Food in the individual’s stomach may obstruct the physician’s view and can be vomited up at the time of the procedure. Before rectum and colon endoscopies, an individual usually takes a laxative and is given an enema to clear out any left over stool. Endoscopy complications are rare. Although an endoscope may damage or even perforate the person’s digestive tract, the endoscopy mostly may cause little bleeding and irritation of the intestinal lining.
|
| Category |
Medical Procedures > E
|
| Related Searches |
upper endoscopy, gastrointestinal endoscopy |
| Date Submitted |
20-Nov-2005
|
|
