Endoscopy---EGD and Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is the visual examination of the large intestine (colon) using a lighted, flexible fiberoptic or video endoscope. The colon begins in the right-lower abdomen and looks like a big question mark as it moves up and around the abdomen, ending in the rectum. It is 5 to 6 feet long. The colon has a number of functions including withdrawing water from the liquid stool that enters it so that a formed stool is produced.
Reasons For The Exam
There are many types of problems that can occur in the colon. The medical history, physical exam, laboratory tests and x-rays can provide information useful in making a diagnosis. Directly viewing the inside of the colon by colonoscopy is usually the best exam.
Colonoscopy is used for:
•Colon cancer -- a serious but highly curable malignancy
•Polyps -- fleshy tumors which usually are the forerunners of colon cancer
•Colitis (ulcerative or Crohn's) -- chronic, recurrent inflammation of the colon
•Diverticulosis and diverticulitis -- pockets along the intestinal wall that develop over time and can become infected
•Bleeding lesions -- bleeding may occur from different points in the colon
•Abdominal symptoms, such as pain or discomfort, particularly if associated with weight loss or anemia
•Abnormal barium x-ray exam
•Chronic diarrhea, constipation, or a change in bowel habits
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•Anemia
Upper GI endoscopy, sometimes called EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), is a visual examination of the upper intestinal tract using a lighted, flexible fiberoptic or video endoscope.
Reasons for the Exam
Due to factors related to diet, environment and heredity, the upper GI tract is the site of numerous disorders. These can develop into a variety of diseases and/or symptoms. Upper GI endoscopy helps in diagnosing and often in treating these conditions:
ulcers -- which can develop in the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum; occasionally ulcers can be malignant tumors of the stomach or esophagus difficulty in swallowing upper abdominal pain or indigestion
intestinal bleeding -- hidden or massive bleeding can occur for various reasons
esophagitis and heartburn -- chronic inflammation of the esophagus due to reflux of stomach acid and digestive juices
gastritis -- inflammation of the lining of the stomach
George S. Gilliam M.D., FACS*
2200 E. Parrish Avenue, Bldg B
Suite203
Owensboro, KY 42303
270-691-9697 Office
270-691-0485 Fax