An endoscopy is a very popular medical test primarily because of the versatility of the procedure, allowing it to serve in the diagnosis of a number of conditions that affect the respiratory, digestive as well as intestinal tracts. The test is performed using a medical instrument known as an endoscope which is essentially a long, thin tube that is inserted into the upper gastrointestinal tract, anus or nasal passage, depending on the purpose of the test. A camera and a light is attached to the end of the device that ias inserted into the patients body. This miniature camera relays images that it captures from inside a persons body onto a monitor screen present in the operating room for the doctor to have a view of the internal structures. The device also has a chamber that allows the doctor to use a number of high precision miniature tools that come in handy when performing actions like a biopsy or simply removing an unnatural growth from tissue or membrane.
A gastrointestinal endoscope also allows for an ultrasound probe to be attached on to the device - where it is then known as an endoscopic ultrasound. There are a number of endoscopy tests that can be performed, depending on the organ that they are required to analyze at that given point in time. For example, an anoscopy is a type of endoscopy that allows the presiding doctor a view of the patients anus, anal canal and lower rectum simply with the help of a speculum. Preparation for this test will require that the individual defecate in order to clear the rectum of any stool prior to the test. In order to aid this, the patient may be asked to take a laxative to hasten things along. An arthroscopy is a type of endoscopy that allows the viewing of a particular joint and the device is inserted into an incision around the area of the joint to look for damage or disease. This procedure also allows the surgeon to perform some amount of surgical operation to help correct the problem. Preparation for this test will require that the patient avoid consuming any food or fluids for at least 12 hours prior to the test while, at the beginning of the test, the joint area may be shaved. Depending on the joint and requirements of the procedure, a sedative and anesthetic may or may not be administered.
Submitted by M T on March 25, 2010 at 12:10