Modern science has made it easier to view the body’s internal structures to search for early signs of disease, bleeding and more before conditions can become more severe. This is the case for Dr. Glenn Madokoro, who uses specialized, lighted tubes with cameras on the end known as endoscopes to view inside the body.
Dr. Madokoro performs a number of gastroenterology services, including colonoscopy and upper endoscopy. While he performs other endoscopic procedures, the upper endoscopy and the colonoscopy are two similar procedures that are indicated for different reasons. Knowing why Dr. Madokoro would recommend one procedure over another can help you better understand the procedure and what Dr. Madokoro may be looking for.
A colonoscopy is a procedure that involves inserting a colonscope that is specifically designed to view the rectum and colon. The colonscope is inserted via the anus and advanced up to the large intestine, extending up as high as the end of the small intestine.
By contrast, an upper endoscopy is inserted in the reverse direction. This procedure uses an endoscope inserted through the mouth and is advanced through the esophagus to the stomach, the duodenum and the small intestine. This allows Dr. Madokoro to visualize these tissues to determine if abnormalities are present.
Dr. Madokoro can recommend an upper endoscopy versus a colonoscopy for various reasons. In some instances, both may be performed in the same procedural time. Some reasons he may perform an upper endoscopy include if you have been vomiting bright red blood, experiencing stomach pain, having difficulty swallowing or if he suspects you may have an ulcer somewhere in your stomach or small intestinal lining.
A colonoscopy is typically performed to test for abnormalities in the colon, such as polyps that could indicate colon cancer. Other reasons Dr. Madokoro may recommend a colonoscopy is if you are experiencing symptoms such as dark blood in your stool, to test for the possible presence of inflammatory bowel disease or to determine the cause of anemia.
Whatever the procedure need or reason for the procedure, Dr. Madokoro and his staff will make every effort to ensure you thoroughly understand the procedure or procedures.
For more information on colonoscopy, endoscopy and additional procedures offered at our Newport Beach gastroenterologist’s office, please call the office of Dr. Glenn Madokoro at (949) 548-8800.