Definition
An endoscope is a medical device consisting of a camera mounted on a flexible tube. Small instruments can be used to take samples of suspicious tissues through the endoscope.
In gastrointestinal (digestive tract) endoscopy, this device is inserted through the mouth or anus. For other areas, small incisions are made.
An ultrasound probe can be added to a gastrointestinal endoscope. This is called an endoscopic ultrasound. Depending on the area of interest, this device can also be passed through the mouth or anus.
How the Test is Performed
There are many types of endoscope, and they are named according to the organs or areas they ...
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Definition
An endoscope is a medical device consisting of a camera mounted on a flexible tube. Small instruments can be used to take samples of suspicious tissues through the endoscope.
In gastrointestinal (digestive tract) endoscopy, this device is inserted through the mouth or anus. For other areas, small incisions are made.
An ultrasound probe can be added to a gastrointestinal endoscope. This is called an endoscopic ultrasound. Depending on the area of interest, this device can also be passed through the mouth or anus.
Considerations
Endoscopies also can be used to perform treatment procedures. For example, bleeding from lesions can be stopped, and colon polyps can be removed.
During endoscopic ultrasound, a needle may be inserted into the area of interest, in order to take a sample of cells. This is called fine needle aspiration.
How the Test will Feel
During an endoscopy, the patient is sedated (given a drug to help them relax and possibly sleep). With the right sedation, the patient should experience little if any discomfort.
In an endoscopic ultrasound of the rectum, sedation is not usually administered. The probe will create a sensation of the need to move the bowels (pass stool), but should not cause any pain.
How to Prepare for the Test
You may be asked not to eat or drink before some types of endoscopy, such as an examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Before an examination of the lower gastrointestinal tract, you may also be asked to clear the colon of stool, using enemas or laxatives.
Ask your health care provider about any special preparation before your endoscopy.
Normal Results
The examination should reveal normal function and appearance of the area being examined. For example, with gastrointestinal endoscopy, the lining of the gastrointestinal tract should be smooth, with no unusual growths or lesions.
Risks
The major risks are pain, bleeding, or infection. For gastrointestinal endoscopy, there is also a risk of perforation (tearing) of the intestinal wall.
Reactions to the anesthesia can occur (though they are rare). For this reason your breathing, blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen level will be monitored during the procedure.
What Abnormal Results Mean
A wide variety of abnormal findings may occur, and the physician will review them following the exam.