Endoscopic procedures and screenings allow medical professionals to view and assess internal organs and tissues using an endoscope, which is a thin, flexible tube with a light and a camera. These tools provide detailed visuals for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, helping to evaluate a range of conditions. Endoscopy minimizes the need for open surgery and can support detection, monitoring, and treatment strategies for a variety of gastrointestinal issues.
What Are Endoscopic Procedures and Screenings?
Endoscopic procedures and screenings involve guiding an endoscope into the body through a natural opening, such as the mouth or rectum. The main objectives are to screen for potential health issues or to help diagnose the cause of symptoms. In screening, endoscopy can help identify conditions early, such as using colonoscopy for colorectal cancer screening. Diagnostic procedures are used for patients experiencing symptoms like bleeding, persistent pain, or swallowing difficulties.
During the procedure, the endoscope’s camera projects images to a monitor, allowing detailed inspection of internal surfaces. Tissue samples can be taken for further analysis. Some endoscopic procedures are also used for treatment, which include removing polyps. This versatility makes endoscopy a widely used tool in medical practice.
What Are the Types?
Several types of endoscopic procedures exist. They are used for different regions and purposes within the gastrointestinal tract. Prominent examples range from procedures that can examine the mouth and throat to ones that can screen the rectum and colon, including:
- Upper Endoscopy (EGD): Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) examines the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The endoscope is inserted via the mouth.
- Colonoscopy: A colonoscope is passed through the rectum to visualize the colon and rectum. This is a standard test for colorectal cancer screening and is also used when investigating unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms such as blood in the stool or chronic changes in bowel habits.
- Capsule Endoscopy: For patients with suspected disease in the small intestine, a capsule endoscopy may be used. The patient swallows a small capsule containing a camera, which travels naturally through the digestive system and takes images at regular intervals.
Other specialized procedures exist, including endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), in which an ultrasound probe is attached to the endoscope to visualize and assess deeper layers of the digestive tract and nearby organs.
What Should You Expect?
Preparation is guided by the specific procedure and the area being examined. For an upper endoscopy (EGD), you may be instructed to avoid food and drink for several hours before the test to keep the stomach empty. For a colonoscopy, a bowel-cleansing regimen will be prescribed. This may include clear liquids and laxative solutions to remove stool and improve visibility. The actual procedure is performed in a medical setting, often under sedation.
If biopsies or small interventions are needed, tools can be passed through the endoscope. After the procedure, a brief period in a recovery area allows you to rest while the sedation wears off. It is common to experience minor symptoms such as mild bloating or cramping. Because of sedative effects, arrange ahead for someone to drive you home. Physicians may communicate preliminary findings after the procedure, while pathology results from any biopsies may require a few days.
Consult a Gastrointestinal Specialist
Endoscopic procedures support the early detection, diagnosis, and management of gastrointestinal conditions, with each type fulfilling a specific clinical role. If you are approaching the age for screening or are experiencing digestive symptoms, a specialist can review your situation and explain whether a procedure may be appropriate for you. They are able to discuss preparation steps, outline the process, and address any questions or concerns.