Endoscopy? - Answers
- Definition:
- A medical procedure that involves the use of a thin, flexible tube with a camera and a light source to examine the inside of the body.
- Purpose:
- Diagnose and treat a variety of conditions affecting the digestive tract, lungs, urinary tract, or other internal organs.
Benefits of Endoscopy:
- Allows doctors to visualize the internal organs directly and identify abnormalities, such as inflammation, bleeding, or tumors.
- Can be used to take biopsies (tissue samples) for further analysis in a lab.
- Allows for the removal of polyps, foreign objects, or blockages during the same procedure.
- Minimally invasive compared to traditional surgery, resulting in less pain and a quicker recovery time.
Types of Endoscopy:
- Upper Endoscopy: Examines the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).
- Colonoscopy: Examines the colon (large intestine) and the rectum.
- Bronchoscopy: Examines the airways (trachea and bronchi) in the lungs.
- Cystoscopy: Examines the urinary bladder and the urethra.
- Laparoscopy: Examines the abdominal organs such as the liver, gallbladder, and female reproductive organs.
Preparation for Endoscopy:
- May involve fasting (not eating or drinking) for several hours before the procedure.
- Depending on the type of endoscopy, laxatives or enemas may be required to clear the bowels or sedatives and local anesthetics may be used to reduce discomfort.
Risks and Complications:
- Endoscopy is generally safe, but carries some risks, such as bleeding, infection, or perforation. These complications are rare and occur in less than 1% of cases.