Gastroenterology Procedures
Upper Endoscopy/EGD/Esophagogastroduodenoscopy: This procedure uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. It’s used to diagnose and treat conditions like ulcers, inflammation, and tumors, and allows for biopsies. The endoscope is inserted through the mouth, providing direct visual examination of the upper digestive tract.
Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy involves inserting a long, flexible tube with a camera into the rectum to examine the entire colon. It’s crucial for colorectal cancer screening, detecting polyps, and diagnosing conditions like inflammatory bowel disease. Biopsies and polyp removal can be performed during the procedure.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy, but it examines only the lower part of the colon (sigmoid colon, descending colon and rectum). It’s a less extensive screening option, suitable for detecting abnormalities in the distal colon. It is less invasive than a full colonoscopy, but also less comprehensive.
Capsule Endoscopy: This involves swallowing a small, ingestible capsule containing a camera. As it travels through the digestive tract, it captures images transmitted to a recording device. It is used to visualize the small intestine, which is difficult to reach with traditional endoscopes, aiding in the diagnosis of obscure bleeding or Crohn’s disease.
EUS (Endoscopic Ultrasound): EUS combines endoscopy with ultrasound. A specialized endoscope with an ultrasound probe is used to obtain detailed images of the digestive tract walls and surrounding organs like the pancreas and gallbladder. It’s used to stage cancers, evaluate pancreatic masses, and diagnose submucosal lesions.
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde CholangioPancreatography): ERCP combines endoscopy and X-ray imaging to diagnose and treat problems in the bile and pancreatic ducts. An endoscope is passed to the duodenum, and dye is injected to visualize the ducts with X-rays. It allows for stone removal, stent placement, and biopsies.
Hemorrhoid Banding: This minimally invasive procedure treats internal hemorrhoids. A small rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply and causing it to shrink. It’s a common and effective outpatient treatment for symptomatic internal hemorrhoids.
Bravo pH for Acid Reflux: The Bravo pH system involves attaching a small wireless capsule to the esophagus during an endoscopy. This capsule measures the pH level (acidity) in the esophagus over 48-96 hours, providing valuable data for diagnosing and managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).