Endoscopy

Endoscopy: An Overview

What is Endoscopy?

Endoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the interior surfaces of an organ or tissue within the body. It allows doctors to view and operate on internal organs and vessels without large incisions. The endoscope, a flexible tube with a light and camera attached to it, is the primary tool used in this procedure.

Types of Endoscopy

Endoscopies are named based on the part of the body being examined:

Upper Endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy – EGD): Examines the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine (duodenum).
Colonoscopy: Examines the entire colon and rectum.
Sigmoidoscopy: Examines the rectum and the lower part of the colon.
Bronchoscopy: Examines the airways and lungs.
Cystoscopy: Examines the bladder and urethra.
Enteroscopy: Examines the small intestine.
Arthroscopy: Examines the joints.
Laparoscopy: Examines the abdominal or pelvic cavity.
Capsule Endoscopy: Involves swallowing a small, pill-sized camera to take pictures of the digestive tract.

Indications for Endoscopy

Endoscopy can be used for various diagnostic and therapeutic purposes:

Diagnosis: Identifying the cause of symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, gastrointestinal bleeding, or changes in bowel habits.
Biopsy: Taking tissue samples for testing to detect diseases like cancer or infections.
Treatment: Removing polyps or foreign objects, widening narrowed areas, treating bleeding sites, or providing nutritional support (e.g., placing feeding tubes).

Preparation for Endoscopy

Preparation for an endoscopy depends on the type of procedure:

Fasting: Patients are usually required to fast for several hours before the procedure to ensure a clear view.
Bowel Preparation: For procedures like colonoscopy, patients must undergo bowel cleansing, often with special laxatives.
Medications: Patients may need to adjust or temporarily stop certain medications before the procedure.

The Endoscopy Procedure

Sedation: Most endoscopies are performed under sedation to help the patient relax and minimize discomfort.
Insertion: The endoscope is gently inserted into the body through the mouth, rectum, or a small incision, depending on the type of endoscopy.
Examination: The camera at the end of the endoscope transmits images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to examine the area in detail.
Intervention: If necessary, tools can be passed through the endoscope to perform biopsies, remove polyps, or treat other issues.

Endoscopy

Endoscopy: An Overview

What is Endoscopy?

Types of Endoscopy

Indications for Endoscopy

Preparation for Endoscopy

The Endoscopy Procedure

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