Treatment Overview
- Procedures: It encompasses a variety of techniques, including:
- Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): This procedure uses contrast dye and x-rays to examine the bile ducts and pancreatic duct for blockages or abnormalities.
- Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): A special endoscope with an ultrasound transducer at its tip provides detailed images of the digestive tract wall and surrounding organs like the pancreas and liver.
- Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR): This technique allows for removal of polyps or other abnormal tissues from the lining of the digestive tract.
- Stent placement: Doctors can insert small tubes (stents) to open narrowed passages in the GI tract.
- Benefits: Compared to traditional endoscopy, advanced GI endoscopy offers several advantages:
- More precise diagnosis: It allows for a more thorough examination of the digestive tract, leading to a more accurate diagnosis of complex conditions.
- Minimally invasive treatment: Many procedures can be performed through the endoscope, avoiding the need for open surgery. This results in quicker recovery times and less pain for patients.
- Treats complex conditions: Advanced techniques can address problems like bile duct stones, pancreatic masses, and bleeding in the GI tract.
- Conditions treated: Advanced GI endoscopy can be used to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions affecting the entire GI tract, including:
- Heartburn (GERD)
- Difficulty swallowing
- Ulcers
- Abdominal pain
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Pancreatitis
- Bile duct problems
- GI cancers