Endoscopy

Endoscopy Research

Endoscopy is an examination with an instrument that allows the doctor to view inner portions of the body that are not otherwise accessible. The endoscope can be passed through the mouth to view the esophagus, the stomach and the small intestine. It can be passed through the anus to view the large intestine. The endoscope diameter is about one fourth to one half an inch in width and from one to five feet in length. The endoscope is flexible and has a viewing system with a light source.

An endoscope provides the doctor with valuable information obtained from the digestive system such as areas of irritation, inflammation and abnormal tissue growth. A view of the colon will reveal polyps that may become cancerous. The endoscope also can be used for certain kinds of treatment. The endoscope has a channel that allows the doctor to pass through different instruments. Small growths can be removed and bleeding can be stopped with electrocautery. Endoscopic procedure can sometimes injure the digestive tract, causing bleeding or irritation, but complications are seldom and normally heal quickly.

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