EndoscopyMedical advances are amazing. Take endoscopy for example. By inserting a very small, flexible tube with its own camera and light source through the mouth into the throat and upper digestive tract, polyps can be removed, cancer detected, and bleeding stopped—all with little or no discomfort. Upper Endoscopy, or Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is usually performed to investigate the cause of persistent upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or difficulty swallowing. It is also the best test for locating the cause of bleeding from the upper digestive tract. Endoscopy is more accurate than x-rays for finding ulcers, inflammation or tumors of the throat, stomach, and the first portion of the small intestine. A variety of instruments can be passed through the endoscope to treat a number of abnormalities—like stretching narrowed spaces, removing swallowed objects or controlling bleeding. In fact, safe and effective endoscopic control of bleeding has greatly reduced the need for blood transfusions and surgery in many patients. Since medication to help you relax is administered during the test, most patients find endoscopy to be only slightly uncomfortable. Many patients fall asleep during the procedure. Afterward, your throat may be sore for a little while and you may feel a little bloated. This is normal. You may resume your normal diet as soon as you leave the procedure area (unless instructed otherwise). Lower Endoscopy, or Colonoscopy is an internal examination of the colon (large intestine) and rectum, using an instrument called a colonoscope. The colonoscope has a small camera attached to a flexible tube. Unlike sigmoidoscopy, which can only reach the lower third of the colon, colonoscopy examines the entire length of the colon. You will lie on your left side with your knees drawn up toward your chest. After you have received a sedative and pain reliever, the colonoscope is inserted through the anus. It is gently moved into the beginning of the large bowel and sometimes into the lowest part of the small intestine. Air will be inserted through the scope to provide a better view. Suction may be used to remove fluid or stool. Because the health care provider gets a better view as the colonoscope is pulled back out, a more careful examination is done while the scope is being pulled out. Tissue samples may be taken with tiny biopsy forceps inserted through the scope. Polyps may be removed with electrocautery snares, and photographs may be taken. Location: Admission preparation: Colonoscopy Preparation Registration:
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