Endoscopic procedures are extremely frequent in the world of medicine due to their ability to provide doctors and surgeons the ability to examine the insides of the body without going through any invasive processes. The procedure is used to treat a multitude due to the ability to use instruments through a tube.
In the world of GI, endoscopic procedures can be done to examine the esophagus, stomach and the intestines. The procedure also enables examination of the rectal canal and the large intestines.
To carry out the process, a flexible tube (endoscope) is inserted into the body through one of the orifices to provide a view of the insides. The tube is made of numerous channels along its length to light up the areas being examined. The instrument also has a camera at the tip and the ability to pump fluids or air in or out of the body.
Endoscopies can be used to effectively diagnose disorders such as colon cancers. People over the age of 50 should undergo an endoscopic process called colonoscopy to rule out the presence of polyps in the colon. In endoscopy surgery, a probe attached to the tip of the endoscope can be used to destroy tissue, remove growth or close off vessels.
Here are some of the GI issues that may be detected wit the help of an endoscopy:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Ulcers
- Cancer
- Inflammation, or swelling
- Precancerous abnormalities such as Barrett’s esophagus
- Celiac disease
- Strictures or narrowing of the esophagus
- Blockages
Before undergoing any endoscopic procedure, a patient needs to avoid food for 6 to 8 hours and avoid liquids for 2 to 4 hours before the procedure. Food in the stomach can block the doctor’s view and might be vomited during the procedure. Before having an endoscope passed into the rectum and colon, a person usually takes laxatives and is sometimes given enemas to clear out any stool. For some procedures, people may need to consume only liquids (such as gelatin or broth) the day before the procedure
If you have questions regarding a procedure or would like to get more information on endoscopy for GI issues, reach out to Solo Clinic.
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