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Procedures
A colonoscopy involves the insertion of a lighted flexible tube, called a colonoscope, into the rectum. The tube is inserted so that the lining of the colon is visualized. Any area of the lining that appears abnormal may be biopsied; that is, a piece of tissue may be removed for analysis. In addition, growths of the colon, called polyps, may be removed (polypectomy) by the use of an electrified wire, called a snare.
A colonoscopy is generally a safe procedure but carries several risks that include, but are not limited to, the following: bleeding from biopsy or polypectomy; perforation or puncture of the colon which would likely require an surgical operation to repair; and, contact colitis; that is, irritation of the lining of the colon from contact with the colonoscope. Serious complications of colonoscopy, such as perforation or bleeding, may require hospitalization, blood transfusions, or surgery.
An EGD is also referred to as “upper endoscopy” or “gastroscopy”. It involves the insertion of a lighted flexible tube, called an upper endoscope, into the mouth. The tube is guided by direct vision into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum so that the lining of the upper gastrointestinal tract is visualized. Any area of the lining that appears abnormal may be biopsied; that is, a piece of tissue may be removed for analysis. Areas that are bleeding may be cauterized to stop active bleeding or to prevent future bleeding.
An EGD is a generally safe procedure but carries several risks that include, but are not limited to, perforation and bleeding. Serious complications of EGD, such as perforation or bleeding, may require hospitalization, blood transfusions, or surgery.
Endoscopic Ultrasound, also known as EUS or Endosonography, is a specialized endoscopic study that enables your doctor to examine your stomach lining and the walls of your upper and lower gastrointestinal track. EUS is also used to study internal organs next to the intestinal tract such as the Gall Bladder and Pancreas.
The procedure is similar to routine endoscopy (EGD) or colonoscopy. A flexible tube is guided visually into the mouth or rectum. Then the EUS is used to scan and obtain ultrasound images. It is also possible to obtain tissue sampling via a fine needle aspirate (FNA) using real time ultrasound guidance.
EUS is generally a safe procedure, but carries several risks that include, but are not limited to, infection, perforation and bleeding. Serious complications of EUS, such as perforation or bleeding, are rare, but may require hospitalization, blood transfusions, or surgery.
A Flexible sigmoidoscopy allows your doctor examine the lining of the rectum and a portion of the colon (large intestine) by inserting a flexible tube about the thickness of your finger into the anus and slowly advancing it into the rectum and lower part of the colon.