An endoscopy is a simple nonsurgical procedure commonly utilized for inspecting the digestive tract. It entails the use of an endoscope, which is a malleable, thin tube with a tiny camera and light attached at the tip so that your doctor could see images of your digestive tract projected on a display monitor. It can spot precancerous and benign polyps and cancerous or malignant tumors.
Likewise, it can determine the presence of inflammation, ulcers, and other kinds of damage to your stomach or intestine walls. Additionally, an upper GI (gastrointestinal) endoscopy could spot the cause of swallowing issues, chest pain, and heartburn. In certain cases, an endoscopy may also be used for removing objects or polyps and taking tissue samples for evaluation.
Endoscopy comes in different types and it will be up to your gastroenterologist, Dr. Glenn Madoroko of Glenn D Madoroko, MD, in Newport Beach, CA, to determine which one will suit you best.
The Different Types of Endoscopies
During a standard upper endoscopy, your doctor will pass an endoscope through your mouth, throat, and esophagus to enable him to see into your esophagus, the small intestines’ upper portion, and your stomach. Similarly, an endoscope could be passed into the colon or large intestine via the rectum to inspect that part of the intestine.
Likewise, an ERCP, or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, will enable your doctor to take images of the gall bladder, pancreas, and associated structures. It can also be utilized for biopsies and placing stents. In addition, EUS, or endoscopic ultrasound, combines ultrasound and endoscopy to obtain information and images about different digestive tract structures.
When is an Endoscopy Recommended?
Your gastroenterologist in Newport Beach, CA, may recommend an endoscopy for assessing the following:
- Abdominal pain
- Swallowing problems
- Ulcers
- Bleeding in the digestive tract
- Gastritis
- Bowel habit changes such as sudden and/or consistent diarrhea or constipation
- Colon growths or polyps
Depending on your reason for undergoing an endoscopy, your gastroenterologist may also utilize an endoscopy to take a sample of suspicious tissue (biopsy) that should be assessed. Likewise, an endoscopy can be used for treating digestive tract issues. For instance, aside from spotting active bleeding from ulcers, an endoscope can also carry devices that could help halt the bleeding. Furthermore, gallstones that have accumulated in the bile duct could be taken out through endoscopy.
For Concerns, Information, and Questions About Endoscopy, Contact Us
Call (949) 548-8800 to arrange an appointment with Dr. Glenn Madokoro here at Glenn Madoroko, MD, in Newport Beach, CA.