Gastrointestinal Diagnostic Exams

Gastrointestinal diagnostic exams often involve scopes and x-rays in order for medical professionals to see inside and take a peek at your gastrointestinal system and evaluate its contents.  Keep in mind that your gastrointestinal system pretty much encompasses everything from your esophagus to your intestines.  With age, you or your loved ones may be affected with several different conditions that may cause your gastrointestinal system to not function as well as it did once upon a time.  Endoscopy procedures are part of the gastrointestinal diagnostic exams that may be performed.



Endoscopic procedures are ones that allow professionals to directly see body cavities, tissues, and organs through the use of a flexible, lighted tube.  These procedures are performed in a variety of settings with numerous goals in mind.  Medical professionals can perform biopsies, remove any abnormal tissue, and even perform minor surgeries, such as cauterizing a bleeding ulcer to stop bleeding.  Sometimes during these procedures a contrast medium will have to be used by injecting in into your vein so that professionals are able to see other structures beyond the capabilities of the scope.



Endoscopy procedures may be indicated if there is a suspected gastrointestinal bleed, an ulcer, inflammation, polyps, or tumors.  Procedures that your provider may recommend for you may include:



·      Colonoscopy

·      Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)

·      Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreateography (ERCP)

·      Sigmoidoscopy



Total Home Health would like to take this time to simply explain these procedures for you in case you or a loved one ever has to undergo one per your provider’s recommendation.



·      Colonoscopy

-  This procedure uses a flexible fiber-optic colonoscope that enters through the anus in order to see your entire colon.

-  Moderate sedation will be used, along with pain medication.

-  Individuals will be positioned on their left side with their knees brought to their chest.

-  This procedure requires preparation (emptying) of the bowels beforehand, which generally will include taking oral laxatives, such as Dulcolax and/or Miralax.

-  In addition, individuals will have to assume a clear liquid diet the day before, and must consume nothing by mouth after midnight on the day of the procedure.

-  Avoid any medications as indicated by your provider.

-  Afterwards you should monitor for rectal bleeding, resume your normal diet, increase fluid intake, be aware that you could experience excess flatulence (gas), and notify your provider of any severe pain right away.





·      EGD

-  This procedure involves insertion of an endoscope through the mouth which proceeds into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine immediately beyond the stomach).

-  Moderate sedation will be used for comfort, a topical anesthetic.

-  Individuals will be positioned on their left side.

-  This procedure requires individuals to consume nothing by mouth 6 to 8 hours before and dentures should be removed before the EGD.

-  Afterwards you should notify you provider immediately of any bleeding, abdominal or chest pain, and any signs of infection (fever, inflammation).

-  Fluids will be held until the gag reflex returns after sedation wears off.



·      ERCP

-  This procedure involves insertion of an endoscope through the mouth which extends into the biliary tree (a system of vessels that direct liver, gallbladder and pancreatic secretions) via the duodenum.

-  Allows providers to see inside the biliary ducts, gall bladder, liver and pancreas.

-  Conscious sedation will be used, a topical anesthetic.

-  Individuals will be repositioned throughout the procedure for accurate visualization of each area.

-  To prepare, individuals should consume nothing by mouth for 6 to 8 hours prior.

-  Afterwards you should notify your provider of any bleeding, abdominal or chest pain, and any signs of infection right away.

-  Fluids will be held until the gag reflex returns after sedation wears off.



·      Sigmoidoscopy

-  This procedure also involves a scope, but it is shorter than the one used in a colonoscopy due to only allowing visualization of the anus, rectum and the lower part of the intestines.

-  Anesthesia is NOT required.

-  Individuals will be placed on their left side for the procedure.

-  Prior to the procedure, the bowels will need prepared which includes use of laxatives such as Dulcolax and/or Miralax.

-  A clear liquid diet should be started prior to the procedure when the bowel preparation begins.

-  Individuals should not consume anything by mouth after midnight on the day of the procedure and should avoid any medications as indicated by their provider.

-  Afterwards you should monitor for any rectal bleeding, resume your normal diet, increase intake of fluid, and be aware that you may experience increased flatulence.



Total Home Health has professionals that are ready to assume responsibility for your care in the comforts of your own home today to both prepare you for your procedure and continue your care when it is over.  Our knowledgeable staff understands these procedures and will provide you and your family members with all the information you need in order to best prepare and experience the best results.  Enroll today with Total Home Health so we can endure your health care journey as a team!