Endoscopic Procedures

Endoscope (EN-doh-skope)

An endoscope is an instrument used to perform an endoscopy, allowing visualization of internal body structures. Word breakdown: endo- = within -scope = instrument for visual examination.

Endoscopy (en-DOS-koh-pee)

Endoscopy is the visual examination of internal structures using an endoscope. Word breakdown: endo- = within -scopy = visual examination.

Anoscopy (ah-NOS-koh-pee)

Anoscopy is the visual examination of the anal canal and lower rectum. Word breakdown: an/o = anus -scopy = visual examination.

Capsule endoscopy

Capsule endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure in which a patient swallows a capsule containing a miniature video camera to visualize the small intestine.

Step-by-step process of capsule endoscopy

Patient swallows a capsule containing a tiny camera. Capsule travels through the small intestine. Camera captures images for approximately 8 hours. Sensor devices attached to the abdomen detect transmitted images. Images are sent to a data recorder worn on the patient’s belt. Recorded data is analyzed for abnormalities.

Colonoscopy (koh-lun-OSS-koh-pee)

Colonoscopy is the direct visual examination of the entire colon from the rectum to the cecum using a colonoscope. Word breakdown: colon/o = colon -scopy = visual examination. Used for early detection of polyps and colorectal carcinoma.

Virtual colonoscopy

A virtual colonoscopy uses MRI or CT imaging to produce two- and three-dimensional images of the colon. Procedure includes insertion of a small flexible tube into the rectum to allow imaging.

Sigmoidoscopy (sig-moi-DOS-koh-pee)

Sigmoidoscopy is the endoscopic examination of the rectum, sigmoid colon, and possibly part of the descending colon. Word breakdown: sigmoid/o = sigmoid colon -scopy = visual examination.

Comparison: Colonoscopy vs. Sigmoidoscopy

Colonoscopy: Examines entire colon (rectum to cecum) Sigmoidoscopy: Examines rectum and sigmoid colon. May include part of descending colon.

Purpose of bowel preparation for colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy

Bowel preparation is required to completely empty the colon to allow clear visualization of the mucosal surface during examination.

Step-by-step bowel preparation (general overview)

Patient follows prescribed dietary restrictions. Laxative or cleansing solution is administered. Bowel evacuation occurs. Colon is cleared of stool. Endoscopic procedure is performed.

Hemoccult® test

The Hemoccult® test, also known as the fecal occult blood test (FOBT), is a laboratory test used to detect hidden (occult) blood in stool. Word breakdown: hem = blood occult = hidden. Specimens are collected at home and analyzed in a laboratory.

Fecal occult blood test (FOBT)

A fecal occult blood test (FOBT) detects hidden blood in stool, which may indicate polyps or colorectal cancer.

Cologuard®

Cologuard® is a noninvasive, at-home stool test that uses: DNA testing. Screening for hidden blood. It is used to assess risk of colorectal cancer.

Why is complete bowel emptying necessary before colonoscopy?

Residual stool can obscure visualization of polyps or lesions.

Why might capsule endoscopy be preferred for small intestine evaluation?

Traditional endoscopy has limited reach into the small intestine; capsule endoscopy allows visualization of the entire small intestine.

Why is the Hemoccult® test considered noninvasive?

Because it requires only stool sample collection without instrumentation of the digestive tract.

How does virtual colonoscopy differ from traditional colonoscopy?

Virtual colonoscopy uses CT or MRI imaging rather than direct endoscopic visualization.

Why is early detection of polyps critical?

Polyps may develop into colorectal carcinoma if not removed.

Which screening method would be most appropriate for a patient unwilling to undergo invasive testing?

Cologuard® or fecal occult blood testing.

Which procedure directly visualizes the entire colon?

Colonoscopy.

Which diagnostic test allows evaluation of the small intestine for several hours without sedation?

Capsule endoscopy.

Anoscopy examines which structures?

C. Anal canal and lower rectum.

Capsule endoscopy primarily visualizes:

C. Small intestine.

Which screening test detects hidden blood in stool?

B. Hemoccult®.

Virtual colonoscopy relies primarily on:

B. CT or MRI imaging.