Initial Steps in Diagnosing Stomach Problems

In the increasingly advanced medical field, diagnostic technology plays a crucial role in identifying internal health issues, including stomach problems. Two primary diagnostic methods essential for understanding and managing these issues are gastroscopy and capsule endoscopy.

Gastroscopy

A diagnostic procedure that allows doctors to directly view the upper digestive tract using a device called an endoscope. An endoscope is a thin, flexible tube equipped with a camera at the end, enabling doctors to examine the lining of the stomach and related organs.

Gastroscopy is used to detect issues in the digestive tract by providing a clear visualization of the lining and structure of the digestive system. It is performed when symptoms suggest possible bleeding in the esophagus or stomach. Additionally, gastroscopy can help identify inflammation, tumors, polyps, and other conditions in the upper digestive tract.

Preparation for gastroscopy involves fasting for 6 hours, blood tests, an ECG, and a medical history assessment. Before the procedure, the doctor may administer anesthesia to ensure the patient remains comfortable throughout the process.

The gastroscopy procedure begins with the patient lying on their left side on the examination table. The doctor then inserts the endoscope through the patient's mouth, which has been equipped with a mouth guard, and guides it through the esophagus into the stomach. During this process, the internal view of the stomach is displayed on a monitor, allowing the doctor to conduct a thorough examination. The procedure typically takes 3–7 minutes, depending on whether a biopsy is also required.

The doctor carefully inserts the endoscope, paying close attention to the areas being examined. Once the procedure is completed, the patient can go home after recovering from anesthesia. Gastroscopy can identify a range of stomach issues, and the results help the doctor plan appropriate treatment, which may include medication or further endoscopic procedures.

Capsule Endoscopy

Innovative diagnostic technology for visual examination of the digestive tract. Capsule endoscopy involves a swallowable capsule designed to be ingested by the patient. The capsule is equipped with a small camera that transmits images as it travels through the digestive system to an external recording device, which is then analyzed by the doctor. The advantage of capsule endoscopy is its broader coverage, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of the digestive tract, including both the small and large intestines.

Capsule endoscopy is a non-invasive procedure that does not require anesthesia and involves minimal preparation, as it is generally painless. Patients are typically asked to fast for about 8 hours before the procedure.

The medical team attaches sensor pads with cables to the patient's chest and abdomen, connecting them to a recording device worn on special belt or a small pouch attached to the outer clothing. The patient then swallows the endoscopic capsule with water, like taking a regular pill.. The camera inside the capsule continuously captures images as it moves through the digestive tract. These images are transmitted to the recorder worn by the patient.

During the procedure, the patient can continue with normal daily activities but should avoid excessive physical exertion. Recording takes place over a 12-hour period. After 4 hours of swallowing the endoscopic capsule, the patient is allowed to consume light snacks.

After 12 hours, the image data is extracted and analyzed by the doctor. The doctor will evaluate the examination results and make a diagnosis based on the images captured during the procedure. The capsule endoscopy is a single-use device that will naturally passes out of the patient’s body through stool within a few days, depending on the patient’s digestive peristalsis. The patient can then return the recording device to the doctor, who will analyze the collected data.

During or after the capsule endoscopy procedure, patients rarely experience any discomfort. However, a limitation of capsule endoscopy is that it can only record images and cannot perform any interventions, making it unsuitable for issues that require direct treatment.

The results from capsule endoscopy can aid doctors in diagnosing stomach issues, but it may not always be optimal for certain conditions. Some medical conditions may prevent a person from undergoing capsule endoscopy, such as difficulty swallowing, upper digestive tract disorders like bowel obstruction, or peristaltic disorders, which affect the muscle movements that push food or liquids through the digestive tract.

In diagnosing stomach problems, gastroscopy and capsule endoscopy provide advanced technologies for precise diagnosis and tailored treatment planning. The choice between these methods depends on the patient’s specific condition and needs. Consulting with a physician is essential to determine the most appropriate diagnostic approach.

Reference:

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