Mansfield Endoscopy
Upper GI & colonoscopy procedures
Endoscopy is a relatively common procedure that is performed with a small telescope-like instrument, called an endoscope. The instrument has a lens and light source on the end, allowing the surgeon to examine a patient’s internal body parts. Depending on the type of procedure being performed, the surgeon will be able to pass tiny instruments through the scope.
In recent years, endoscopy has become the preferred method of treatment for a wide range of procedures, including conditions of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract and colonoscopy. Endoscopy can be either diagnostic or therapeutic, meaning it can allow your doctor to identify problem areas and figure out the best treatment path. For both upper and colonoscopy concerns, endoscopy is the best form of early detection of certain concerns and other serious ailments.
About Endoscopy Procedures
Endoscopy may be required if your doctor or surgeon needs to visually examine a specific organ or internal structure of the body. The lighted camera and lens on the instrument allows your doctor to view and identify any potential problem areas. Once the instrument is inserted, the doctor will be able to see exactly what the endoscope sees on a screen in the operating room. This will allow him or her to have a better vantage point of what is going on and causing a patient’s discomfort or pain. Depending on the situation, the surgeon may suspect that a certain organ or area of the body has been compromised. If this is the case, he or she may order an endoscopic biopsy to learn more.
During endoscopy, our surgical team may pass various instruments through the working channel, depending on your problem area or organ of concern. This type of procedure is common in treating a wide range of digestive problems, specifically in areas of the esophagus or stomach.
About Endoscopy Procedures
An upper gastrointestinal (UGI) endoscopy allow your doctor or surgeon to visually examine the interior lining of your esophagus, stomach, and beginning of your small intestine. Also referred to as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), this procedure uses an endoscope, a flexible tube equipped with a lens and light source. The camera displays the images seen through the endoscope onto a screen in the doctor’s office, allowing him or her to get a better idea of what is going on internally.
An upper GI endoscopy can provide great insight on certain abnormal conditions including:
- Ulcers
- Bleeding
- Tumors
- Infection
- Inflammation
This has become the most common procedure when looking for upper GI problems because it is minimally invasive and extremely effective in both diagnosing and treating certain conditions.
Endoscopy may provide insight and show problems that regular X-ray tests do not show, which is great news for patients. Not only does an upper GI endoscopy allow your doctor to pinpoint problem areas before they turn into more serious conditions, but it can oftentimes eliminate the need for surgery.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy provides your surgeon with access to your lower gastrointestinal tract, which includes your rectum, colon, and part of your small intestine. There are many different reasons why your healthcare provider may recommend a colonoscopy, such as to diagnose and treat diseases that affect these areas.
A minimally-invasive procedure, colonoscopy uses a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light source and camera. The camera then displays what the colonoscope sees onto a screen for the doctor. A screening colonoscopy is recommended by national guidelines starting at the age of 50 but depending on your risk factors, the age recommendation could be earlier. Most insurance plans will cover the cost of your colonoscopy as a preventative exam. Contact us to schedule your colonoscopy.