What is small bowel endoscopy. How does it differ from colonoscopy. What conditions can it diagnose. What should patients expect during the procedure. How to prepare for a small bowel endoscopy. What are the benefits and risks of this diagnostic tool.

Understanding Small Bowel Endoscopy: A Vital Diagnostic Tool

Small bowel endoscopy, also known as deep endoscopy, is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the entire small intestine. This sophisticated diagnostic tool allows medical professionals to visualize and assess approximately 20 feet of the small bowel, providing crucial insights into various gastrointestinal conditions.

The procedure utilizes a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope, equipped with a light and a video camera. Special balloons are fitted over the endoscope, which can be inflated and deflated to navigate the small intestine. This unique approach enables physicians to inspect nearly every part of the small bowel, facilitating accurate diagnosis and potential treatment of intestinal disorders.

Key Features of Small Bowel Endoscopy

• Minimally invasive procedure
• Examines the entire small intestine
• Uses a flexible endoscope with light and camera
• Employs special balloons for navigation
• Allows for both diagnosis and treatment

Small Bowel Endoscopy vs. Colonoscopy: Understanding the Differences

While both small bowel endoscopy and colonoscopy are endoscopic procedures, they serve distinct purposes and examine different parts of the digestive tract. Understanding these differences is crucial for patients and healthcare providers alike.

Small bowel endoscopy focuses on the small intestine, which connects the stomach to the large intestine. It offers a comprehensive view of this lengthy organ, making it particularly useful for diagnosing conditions that affect the small bowel, such as Crohn’s disease.

Colonoscopy, on the other hand, is limited to examining the large intestine (colon) and rectum. While it’s an essential tool for colon cancer screening and diagnosing issues in the lower gastrointestinal tract, it cannot provide insights into small intestine disorders.

Comparing Small Bowel Endoscopy and Colonoscopy

Conditions Diagnosed Through Small Bowel Endoscopy

Small bowel endoscopy is a valuable diagnostic tool for various gastrointestinal conditions. Its ability to visualize the entire small intestine makes it particularly effective in identifying and assessing disorders that may not be detectable through other methods.

Common Conditions Diagnosed

• Crohn’s Disease: An inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the digestive tract, including the small intestine.
• Celiac Disease: An immune reaction to eating gluten, which leads to damage in the small intestine.
• Small Intestine Tumors: Both benign and malignant growths in the small bowel.
• Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Identifying sources of bleeding in the small intestine that may not be visible through other endoscopic procedures.
• Intestinal Polyps: Small growths on the lining of the small intestine.
• Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Various conditions causing inflammation in the digestive tract.

Can small bowel endoscopy detect early stages of intestinal cancer? Yes, small bowel endoscopy is capable of detecting early-stage intestinal cancers. The high-resolution imaging provided by the endoscope allows physicians to identify small, potentially cancerous lesions that might be missed by other diagnostic methods. This early detection capability makes small bowel endoscopy a crucial tool in gastrointestinal oncology.

Preparing for a Small Bowel Endoscopy: Patient Guidelines

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful small bowel endoscopy. Patients should follow their healthcare provider’s instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcomes. Here are some general guidelines to help patients prepare for the procedure:

1. Fasting: Patients are typically required to fast for several hours before the procedure. This ensures an empty stomach, allowing for better visualization of the small intestine.
2. Medication Adjustments: Some medications, particularly blood thinners, may need to be temporarily discontinued. Always consult with your doctor about managing your regular medications.
3. Medical History Review: Inform your doctor about any chronic conditions, allergies, or previous surgical procedures.
4. Transportation Arrangements: Due to the sedation used during the procedure, patients should arrange for someone to drive them home afterward.
5. Clothing and Accessories: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and leave valuable items at home.

Is it necessary to undergo bowel preparation for a small bowel endoscopy? Unlike colonoscopy, which requires extensive bowel preparation, small bowel endoscopy typically does not require a complete bowel cleanse. However, fasting is essential to ensure clear visualization of the small intestine. Your doctor will provide specific instructions based on the type of endoscopy being performed and your individual medical history.

The Small Bowel Endoscopy Procedure: What to Expect

Understanding the procedure can help alleviate anxiety and ensure patients are well-prepared for their small bowel endoscopy. Here’s a step-by-step overview of what typically occurs during the procedure:

1. Pre-Procedure Preparation: Patients are asked to change into a hospital gown and have their vital signs checked.
2. Sedation: An anesthesiologist administers sedation to ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure.
3. Endoscope Insertion: The endoscope is carefully inserted through the mouth, passing through the esophagus and stomach into the small intestine.
4. Examination: The physician navigates the endoscope through the small intestine using the balloon system, examining the bowel lining for any abnormalities.
5. Biopsy or Treatment: If necessary, small tissue samples may be taken for biopsy, or minor treatments may be performed.
6. Completion: The endoscope is gently removed, and the patient is moved to a recovery area.
7. Recovery: Patients are monitored as they wake from sedation and are typically discharged after a short observation period.

How long does a small bowel endoscopy procedure typically last? The duration of a small bowel endoscopy can vary depending on the specific technique used and the findings during the examination. Generally, the procedure itself lasts between 1 to 2 hours. However, patients should plan to be at the medical facility for several hours to account for preparation, the procedure, and recovery time.

Benefits and Risks of Small Bowel Endoscopy

Small bowel endoscopy offers numerous benefits in diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal conditions. However, like any medical procedure, it also carries some risks. Understanding both the advantages and potential complications is essential for patients and healthcare providers.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Visualization: Allows for examination of the entire small intestine, which is not possible with other endoscopic procedures.
• Accurate Diagnosis: Provides high-resolution images for precise identification of abnormalities.
• Minimally Invasive: Avoids the need for surgical exploration in many cases.
• Therapeutic Capabilities: Allows for simultaneous treatment of certain conditions during the diagnostic procedure.
• Biopsy Collection: Enables the collection of tissue samples for further analysis.

Risks and Potential Complications

• Bleeding: Minor bleeding may occur, especially if a biopsy is performed.
• Perforation: There is a small risk of intestinal perforation, though this is rare.
• Infection: While uncommon, there is a slight risk of infection.
• Adverse Reaction to Sedation: Some patients may experience adverse effects from the sedative medications used.
• Pancreatitis: In rare cases, inflammation of the pancreas may occur.

Are the risks of small bowel endoscopy higher than those of traditional upper endoscopy or colonoscopy? While small bowel endoscopy is generally considered safe, it does carry a slightly higher risk profile compared to traditional upper endoscopy or colonoscopy. This is primarily due to the longer duration of the procedure and the more extensive manipulation of the intestine. However, these risks are still relatively low, and the benefits often outweigh the potential complications for patients who require this diagnostic tool.

Innovations in Small Bowel Endoscopy Technology

The field of small bowel endoscopy continues to evolve, with ongoing technological advancements enhancing its diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. These innovations are improving patient outcomes and expanding the applications of this valuable procedure.

Recent Technological Advancements

• Capsule Endoscopy: A swallowable camera pill that captures images as it travels through the digestive tract.
• Double-Balloon Enteroscopy: An advanced technique that allows for deeper insertion and better maneuverability within the small intestine.
• Spiral Enteroscopy: A motorized spiral overtube system that enables faster and more efficient small bowel examination.
• Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy: Provides real-time, microscopic imaging of the intestinal mucosa during endoscopy.
• Artificial Intelligence Integration: AI-assisted image analysis to improve detection of abnormalities and guide biopsies.

How are these technological advancements improving patient care? These innovations are enhancing the accuracy of diagnoses, reducing procedure times, and minimizing patient discomfort. For instance, capsule endoscopy offers a non-invasive alternative for initial screening, while AI-assisted analysis can help identify subtle abnormalities that might be missed by the human eye. Furthermore, advanced techniques like double-balloon enteroscopy allow for more targeted interventions, potentially reducing the need for repeated procedures.

Post-Procedure Care and Follow-Up After Small Bowel Endoscopy

Proper post-procedure care is essential for patient safety and to ensure the best possible outcomes following a small bowel endoscopy. Understanding what to expect and how to care for oneself after the procedure can help patients recover more comfortably and quickly.

Immediate Post-Procedure Care

1. Recovery Period: Patients are monitored in a recovery area as they wake from sedation.
2. Vital Sign Monitoring: Medical staff will regularly check vital signs to ensure stability.
3. Hydration: Patients are encouraged to drink clear fluids once fully awake.
4. Discharge Instructions: Detailed instructions for at-home care are provided before discharge.

At-Home Care Guidelines

• Rest: Patients should rest for the remainder of the day following the procedure.
• Diet: Start with clear liquids and gradually progress to regular diet as tolerated.
• Medication: Resume regular medications as instructed by your doctor.
• Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities for 24 hours post-procedure.
• Driving: Do not drive or operate machinery for at least 24 hours after sedation.

Follow-Up Care

Follow-up care after a small bowel endoscopy is crucial for discussing results and planning any necessary treatment. The timing and nature of follow-up appointments can vary based on the findings of the procedure and the patient’s overall health condition.

When should patients expect to receive their small bowel endoscopy results? The timeframe for receiving results can vary. In some cases, preliminary findings may be discussed immediately after the procedure. However, if biopsies were taken, it may take several days to a week for complete results. Your healthcare provider will inform you about when and how you will receive your results, and schedule any necessary follow-up appointments.

This comprehensive guide to small bowel endoscopy provides valuable insights into this important diagnostic tool. From understanding the procedure and its differences from colonoscopy to preparing for the examination and managing post-procedure care, patients and healthcare providers can use this information to navigate the process more effectively. As technology continues to advance, small bowel endoscopy remains a crucial component in the diagnosis and treatment of various gastrointestinal conditions, offering hope and improved outcomes for many patients.

Small Bowel Endoscopy | Inflammatory Bowel Disease | Henry Ford Health

Minimally invasive procedure for diagnosing IBD.

Your small intestine, also known as the small bowel, connects the stomach to the large intestine (colon). The small bowel is often the site of painful conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease (an immune disease in which eating foods with gluten leads to damage in the small intestine).

At Henry Ford, we use several diagnostic procedures to determine the cause of your discomfort, where in your digestive tract the issue is located and how severe the issue is. One of these procedures is small-bowel endoscopy, also known as deep endoscopy. Some other digestive centers don’t offer small-bowel endoscopy because of the time and coordination involved in the procedure, but it’s a valuable tool that helps us accurately diagnose our patients.

Our team includes specialists in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with the expertise you need for a precise diagnosis and comprehensive treatment. No matter what’s causing your symptoms, we’re here to help.

What is a small-bowel endoscopy?

A small-bowel endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure in which we examine your entire small intestine, which is about 20 feet long. We use special balloons that fit over a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope, which has a light and a video camera. By inflating and deflating the balloons, we move the small bowel over the endoscope so we can examine it.

The endoscope lets us see nearly any part of the small bowel so we can diagnose the cause of your symptoms. We also can treat your condition if needed with the help of tiny tools we pass through the endoscope and into your small bowel.

What’s the difference between a small-bowel endoscopy and a colonoscopy?

While small-bowel endoscopy and colonoscopy are both types of endoscopy, the procedures are very different. Because Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, we use small-bowel endoscopy for its greater ability to view any part of the digestive tract. Colonoscopy, by contrast, lets us view changes and areas of concern in the large intestine (colon) only.

Because of a colonoscopy’s more limited viewing area, a small-bowel endoscopy is the better choice for locating and diagnosing Crohn’s disease.

What to expect during your small-bowel endoscopy

Before your procedure, we’ll give you instructions on how to prepare for your small-bowel endoscopy. You may need to fast (not eat or drink) before your endoscopy so your stomach is empty for the procedure.

If you take certain blood-thinning medications, you may need to stop taking them in the days before your endoscopy, as these medications can increase your risk of bleeding during the procedure. Your doctor will give you instructions about any medications you may take for chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure.

On the day of your procedure, one of our expert anesthesiologists will sedate you. While you’re sedated, your doctor will pass the endoscope through your mouth and stomach and into the small intestine. You will not feel any pain during your endoscopy.

The procedure will last an hour or two. Afterward, you’ll rest until your sedation wears off. You won’t be able to drive, so please plan on having someone available to take you home.

Understanding upper endoscopy and colonoscopy – Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Visiting Dana-Farber? See our prescreening and mask requirements.

• 
  
  

  What is endoscopy?

  Endoscopy is a procedure in which the gastro-intestinal tract (GI tract) is viewed through a lighted, flexible tube with a camera at the end (endoscope). Small samples of tissues cells (biopsy) can also be collected and sent for testing.

  There are two basic types of endoscopy:

  1. Upper endoscopy – The esophagus, stomach, and small intestines can be viewed by a thin flexible tube inserted through the mouth.
  2. Colonoscopy – The lining of the large intestine, colon and rectum can be viewed by a flexible tube inserted through the rectum.

  Preparation

  • Blood tests are sometimes required.
  • Medications can be given by vein if needed.
  • Please arrange for a ride home. You may feel drowsy after the procedure due to medications.
  • Upper endoscopy: No food or drink is allowed for six hours before the procedure. An empty stomach allows for the best view and safest exam.
  • Colonoscopy: Drink only clear liquids for at least 24 hours before the procedure. A laxative or special cleansing solution will be ordered by the physician to clear the bowel of stool so that the rectum/intestines can be seen. (See below for specific instructions)

  Day of procedure

  • The doctor will explain the procedure and get your consent.
  • Tell your doctor about medications you are taking.
  • Discuss allergies to medications and other medical conditions.
  • This is the time to ask questions about procedure.

  What can I expect during upper endoscopy?

  Your doctor will spray your throat with a local anesthetic or give you a sedative to help you relax. You’ll then lie on your side, and a doctor will pass the endoscope through your mouth and into the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. The endoscope doesn’t interfere with your breathing. Most patients consider the test only slightly uncomfortable, and many patients fall asleep during the procedure.

  What happens after upper endoscopy?

  You will be observed closely until most of the effects of the medication have worn off. Your throat might be a little sore, and you might feel temporarily bloated due to the air introduced into your stomach during the test. You will be able to eat after you leave unless your doctor instructs you otherwise.

  Your doctor generally can tell you your test results on the day of the procedure; however, the results of some tests might take several days.

  If you received sedatives, you won’t be allowed to drive after the procedure even though you might not feel tired. You should arrange for someone to accompany you home because the sedatives may affect your judgment and reflexes for the rest of the day.

  What happens during colonoscopy?

  Colonoscopy is well-tolerated and rarely causes much pain. You might feel pressure, bloating or cramping during the procedure. You will likely receive a sedative to help you relax and better tolerate any discomfort.

  You will lie on your side or back while your doctor slowly advances a flexible tube (colonoscope) through your large intestine to examine the lining. The whole procedure itself usually takes 45 to 60 minutes, although you should plan on two to three hours for waiting, preparation and recovery.

  What happens after a colonoscopy?

  Your physician will explain the results of the examination to you, although you’ll have to wait for the results of any biopsies performed. If you were given sedatives during the procedure, someone must drive you home and stay with you. Even if you feel alert after the procedure, your judgment and reflexes could be slow for the rest of the day. You may have some cramping or bloating because of the air introduced into the colon during the examination. This should disappear quickly when you pass gas.

  You should be able to eat after the examination, but your doctor may restrict your diet and activities, especially after the removal of any polyps.

  
  
  

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• Treatments & Procedures

What is bowel endoscopy: how to prepare and undergo an examination, indications and contraindications

Bowel endoscopy is a type of diagnostic examination that allows you to see the state of this organ from the inside. It is performed using an endoscope – a flexible device equipped with light, a camera, and in some cases a needle for biopsy (taking a tissue sample for examination in a laboratory).

Types of endoscopy

There are several main types of endoscopic examination of the intestine:

• Capsule – used to examine the small intestine; the patient swallows the capsule, which contains a camera that takes pictures as it moves; data is transmitted using a sensor, and the capsule itself subsequently leaves the body naturally
• Colonoscopy – endoscopic examination of the large intestine; a tube of small diameter and long length (up to one and a half meters) is inserted through the rectum
• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy – used to examine the esophagus, stomach, and the initial area of ​​the small intestine; during the procedure, a gastroscope (a type of endoscope) is inserted into the patient through the oral cavity and pharynx to a depth of 30 cm
• Sigmoidoscopy – endoscopic examination of the rectum; during the procedure, an endoscopic device

is inserted through the rectum to a depth of 30 centimeters

Indications for bowel endoscopy

Each type of bowel endoscopy is used to identify different diseases:

• Capsule
• Bleeding from the area of ​​the small intestine
• Crohn’s disease
• Iron deficiency anemia
• Neoplasms of the small intestine
• Colonoscopy
• Discharge of blood, mucous or purulent masses from the intestines
• Pain in the anus
• Inflammation, colitis
• Change or disturbance of stool
• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
• Peptic ulcer
• Gastritis
• Bleeding
• Violation of the digestive tract
• Suspicion of a malignant tumor
• Sigmoidoscopy
• Chronic hemorrhagic disease
• Probability of neoplasm in large intestine
• Paraproctitis
• Suspected prostate tumor (in men)

The doctor may also send the patient for an endoscopic examination of the colon, small intestine, or rectum if symptoms such as:

• Abdominal pain of unknown origin
• Foreign body in intestines
• Gastric or intestinal obstruction
• Weight loss with anemia, high fever
• Bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract

Endoscopy can also be done to monitor results after surgery.

Contraindications

Endoscopic examination of the intestine is not performed if the patient:

• Diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis
• Impaired blood clotting
• Bowel perforation suspected
• Abnormal enlargement of the colon (toxic megacolon)
• State of shock
• Severe mental disorders
• Inflammatory or edematous lesions of the areas through which the endoscope will be inserted
• Acute heart disease
• Allergic reactions

Preparing for your procedure

Preparing for an endoscopic examination of the intestine consists of two main steps:

• Diet 2 days before procedure
• Cleansing the gastrointestinal tract from food debris and feces on the eve of the procedure

Diet includes:

• Lean boiled fish or chicken
• Dairy products
• Lean biscuits (biscuits, etc. )

Should be eliminated from the diet:

• Milk
• Black bread
• Kvass
• Legumes (beans, peas, etc.)
• Cereals (millet, oatmeal, etc.)
• Fresh (not cooked) fruits, berries, vegetables, herbs

Cleansing of the gastrointestinal tract should be carried out with an enema or special preparations (they may be prescribed by a doctor).

How bowel endoscopy is performed

The procedure depends on the type of procedure.

Capsule endoscopy:

• The patient swallows a capsule with a camera
• The camera moves through the digestive tract and takes pictures
• Images are transferred to the doctor’s computer
• Specialist can control the camera, turn it on or off temporarily
• The patient can be in any position, engage in various activities
• Treatment lasts 8-9 hours
• The camera is removed from the body of the subject in a natural way

Colonoscopy:

• The patient lies on his side with his legs drawn up to his stomach (he lies on his back when necessary)
• Physician administering local anesthesia
• The device is placed in the patient’s rectum to a depth of 30 cm
• If necessary, during the manipulations, medical procedures can be carried out: removal of a neoplasm, stop bleeding, removal of a foreign body
• Colonoscopy lasts 30 minutes to 1 hour

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy:

• The patient lies on the left side
• Physician applying local anesthesia
• The endoscope is placed through the mouth into the esophagus and then into the stomach and duodenum
• According to the indications, small foreign bodies can be removed during the examination, and a tissue sample can be taken for laboratory testing
• The procedure lasts 5-20 minutes (depending on the manipulations to be carried out)

Sigmoidoscopy:

• The patient stands in the knee-elbow position on the couch
• Doctor examines the anus by palpation
• The instrument is lubricated with petroleum jelly and inserted into the rectum
• The specialist removes the stop and places the endoscope further
• The tip of the device moves along the intestinal lumen
• Treatment lasts 10-15 minutes

Advantages of the procedure at MEDSI

• MEDSI clinics are equipped with modern equipment – video endoscopic systems and instruments from the Japanese company Olympus and German Xion – which allows you to make the diagnosis most accurately and quickly
• Application of various types of endo-procedures and other diagnostic methods
• If necessary, doctors of related profiles are involved in the diagnosis
• Patients are offered a comfortable hospital and international level service

To make an appointment for a consultation, call the round-the-clock phone 8 (495) 7-800-500.

Do not delay treatment, see a doctor now:

• Endoscopy
• Endoscopy Center at CDC on Krasnaya Presnya
• MSCT of the intestine (virtual colonoscopy)

Endoscopy – what it is, what are the advantages

Endoscopy is an invasive method for examining hollow organs using endoscopes – flexible tubes equipped with a light source and passages for inserting surgical instruments. Endoscopic research methods are widely used in proctology, gastroenterology, otolaryngology, oncology, surgery and other areas of medicine.

The uniqueness of the method is due to its accuracy and information content. During the procedure, the doctor can take the material for a histological examination, carry out a number of therapeutic measures, and reliably assess the condition of the membranes lining the organ. Endoscopy – what kind of procedure it is, what are the advantages – experts will answer these and other questions in the article below.

Possibilities of endoscopy

Endoscopy is considered a universal method for detecting diseases of hollow organs and entire systems. The procedure is prescribed as a primary or differential diagnosis. The possibilities of endoscopic examination are wide:

• early diagnosis of structural changes in mucous membranes, tumors;
• detection of erosive foci, polyps, diverticula, ulcers;
• determination of infectious and inflammatory foci;
• tissue biopsy with biopsy sampling for histological analysis;
• administration of drugs for the purpose of antibacterial or antiseptic treatment of a hollow organ;
• laser treatment, cryodestruction method (for example, when removing polyposis formations).

Thanks to endoscopy, low-traumatic surgical interventions, catheterization, bypass procedures can be performed.

Scope

Rigid or flexible endoscopes (fiberscopes) are used in endoscopy. Flexible have a fiberglass structure – an image conductor to a computer.

Today, video endoscopes equipped with a miniature video camera are more commonly used. The device transmits information to the computer in real time. The tube of rigid endoscopes is made of metal. Main types of endoscopes:

• arthroscope – study of articular structures;
• hysteroscope for examining the internal female genital organs;
• colonoscope – allows you to examine the large intestine;
• proctosigmoscope – the equipment allows diagnosing diseases of the rectum and sigmoid colon;
• tracheobronchoscope – examines the airways;
• laparoscope – used in the diagnosis of diseases of the peritoneum and abdominal space;
• gastroscope (esophagogastroduodenoscope) – the equipment allows you to evaluate the organ complex of the upper digestive tract;
• cystoscope – a device used in urology, nephrology and gynecology for the diagnosis of diseases of the genitourinary system.

The endoscopy procedure is named according to the equipment chosen. So, when using a colonoscope as part of the diagnosis of proctological diseases, they talk about colonoscopy, when using an arthroscope, about conducting arthroscopy, if necessary, studies of the gastrointestinal tract suggest fibrogastroduodenoscopy.

How an endoscopy is done

Endoscopic examination is carried out through natural anatomical passages. The procedure is often performed under local anesthesia to maintain patient contact on an outpatient basis. Sometimes the question of the need for anesthesia is decided.

In some cases, such as laparoscopy, the insertion of the equipment is carried out through punctures. In this case, patients are in the hospital until the state of health normalizes.

Endoscopic technique is widely used for appendicitis, removal of the gallbladder, tumors, heart bypass. Endoscopy in surgery reduces the invasiveness of the operation, accelerates the recovery of patients and minimizes intra- and postoperative complications.

The most common endoscopic examinations

Most often, endoscopy is performed in gastroenterological and proctological practice. These studies are distinguished by their availability and good tolerability by patients. How is endoscopy performed in the study of the upper and lower digestive tract, the genitourinary system.

FGDS or fibrogastroduodenoscopy

Performed when the patient complains of discomfort and pain in the stomach, in preparation for abdominal surgery, for dynamic control of the prescribed treatment. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and lasts no more than 5 minutes.

The gastroscope is inserted into the patient through the oropharynx, having previously treated the throat with a solution of lidocaine. The patient is fitted with a mouthpiece, which must be clamped with teeth. At the deep entrance, the endoscope is immersed through the esophagus to the stomach. Inspection is carried out with the injection of air into the cavity of the stomach to straighten the mucous membranes for better visualization.

At the end of the examination, the doctor makes a conclusion. If necessary, take pictures, fix the nuances of the study.

Intestinal examination

Endoscopy of the intestine or colonoscopy is a common method for detecting diseases of the large intestine, various pathological changes in the membranes. Examination of the lining mucous membranes and the walls of the organ is performed using a flexible endoscope for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes. Indications for intestinal endoscopy are:

• heaviness during emptying, constipation, episodes of intestinal obstruction;
• ulcerative erosive process;
• bleeding of the digestive tract;
• pain;
• polyps, neoplasms.

In diseases of the rectum in the sigmoid segment of the intestine, sigmoidoscopy is indicated. The study is carried out using a proctoscope – a tube with a lighting device and an air injection mechanism. Sigmoidoscopy allows you to assess the length of the intestine up to 22-30 cm from the entrance to the anus.

Genitourinary system

Endoscopy in urology or gynecology is a ureteroscopy or cystoscopy procedure. Both methods can detect diseases of the bladder and urinary tract.

Cystoscopy allows you to evaluate the function of the kidneys, the condition of the bladder, the presence of foreign bodies, foci of ureteral stricture. With the help of a cystoscope, it is possible to carry out procedures for instilling the bladder with antibacterial drugs, antiseptics for chronic cystitis, install a urethral catheter, and take tissues for histological examination.

Today, endoscopy is the method of choice in the diagnosis of hollow organs, along with ultrasound examination. The procedure has a wide range of indications and possibilities. After an endoscopic examination, the reliability of the final diagnosis increases dramatically. Modern diagnostic approaches minimize discomfort and pain for patients.

Endoscopy is an invasive method for examining hollow organs using endoscopes – flexible tubes equipped with a light source and passages for inserting surgical instruments. Endoscopic research methods are widely used in proctology, gastroenterology, otolaryngology, oncology, surgery and other areas of medicine.

The uniqueness of the method is due to its accuracy and information content. During the procedure, the doctor can take the material for a histological examination, carry out a number of therapeutic measures, and reliably assess the condition of the membranes lining the organ. Endoscopy – what kind of procedure it is, what are the advantages – experts will answer these and other questions in the article below.

Possibilities of endoscopy

Endoscopy is considered a universal method for detecting diseases of hollow organs and entire systems. The procedure is prescribed as a primary or differential diagnosis. The possibilities of endoscopic examination are wide:

• early diagnosis of structural changes in mucous membranes, tumors;
• detection of erosive foci, polyps, diverticula, ulcers;
• determination of infectious and inflammatory foci;
• tissue biopsy with biopsy sampling for histological analysis;
• administration of drugs for the purpose of antibacterial or antiseptic treatment of a hollow organ;
• laser treatment, cryodestruction method (for example, when removing polyposis formations).

Thanks to endoscopy, low-traumatic surgical interventions, catheterization, bypass procedures can be performed.

Scope

Rigid or flexible endoscopes (fiberscopes) are used in endoscopy. Flexible have a fiberglass structure – an image conductor to a computer.

Today, video endoscopes equipped with a miniature video camera are more commonly used. The device transmits information to the computer in real time. The tube of rigid endoscopes is made of metal. Main types of endoscopes:

• arthroscope – study of articular structures;
• hysteroscope for examining the internal female genital organs;
• colonoscope – allows you to examine the large intestine;
• proctosigmoscope – the equipment allows diagnosing diseases of the rectum and sigmoid colon;
• tracheobronchoscope – examines the airways;
• laparoscope – used in the diagnosis of diseases of the peritoneum and abdominal space;
• gastroscope (esophagogastroduodenoscope) – the equipment allows you to evaluate the organ complex of the upper digestive tract;
• cystoscope – a device used in urology, nephrology and gynecology for the diagnosis of diseases of the genitourinary system.

The endoscopy procedure is named according to the equipment chosen. So, when using a colonoscope as part of the diagnosis of proctological diseases, they talk about colonoscopy, when using an arthroscope, about conducting arthroscopy, if necessary, studies of the gastrointestinal tract suggest fibrogastroduodenoscopy.

How an endoscopy is done

Endoscopic examination is carried out through natural anatomical passages. The procedure is often performed under local anesthesia to maintain patient contact on an outpatient basis. Sometimes the question of the need for anesthesia is decided.

In some cases, such as laparoscopy, the insertion of the equipment is carried out through punctures. In this case, patients are in the hospital until the state of health normalizes.

Endoscopic technique is widely used for appendicitis, removal of the gallbladder, tumors, heart bypass. Endoscopy in surgery reduces the invasiveness of the operation, accelerates the recovery of patients and minimizes intra- and postoperative complications.

The most common endoscopic examinations

Most often, endoscopy is performed in gastroenterological and proctological practice. These studies are distinguished by their availability and good tolerability by patients. How is endoscopy performed in the study of the upper and lower digestive tract, the genitourinary system.

FGDS or fibrogastroduodenoscopy

Performed when the patient complains of discomfort and pain in the stomach, in preparation for abdominal surgery, for dynamic control of the prescribed treatment. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and lasts no more than 5 minutes.

The gastroscope is inserted into the patient through the oropharynx, having previously treated the throat with a solution of lidocaine. The patient is fitted with a mouthpiece, which must be clamped with teeth. At the deep entrance, the endoscope is immersed through the esophagus to the stomach. Inspection is carried out with the injection of air into the cavity of the stomach to straighten the mucous membranes for better visualization.

At the end of the examination, the doctor makes a conclusion. If necessary, take pictures, fix the nuances of the study.

Intestinal examination

Endoscopy of the intestine or colonoscopy is a common method for detecting diseases of the large intestine, various pathological changes in the membranes. Examination of the lining mucous membranes and the walls of the organ is performed using a flexible endoscope for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes. Indications for intestinal endoscopy are:

• heaviness during emptying, constipation, episodes of intestinal obstruction;
• ulcerative erosive process;
• bleeding of the digestive tract;
• pain;
• polyps, neoplasms.

In diseases of the rectum in the sigmoid segment of the intestine, sigmoidoscopy is indicated. The study is carried out using a proctoscope – a tube with a lighting device and an air injection mechanism. Sigmoidoscopy allows you to assess the length of the intestine up to 22-30 cm from the entrance to the anus.