How Is Endoscopy Done?
Endoscopy is performed under general anesthesia. Once the patient is unconscious and has an endotracheal (breathing) tube in place, the endoscopy procedure can begin. The tip of the endoscope is lightly lubricated to allow easy passage. The tip of the endoscope in then initially placed in the body orifice (mouth, colon or trachea). The operator then uses the eyepiece to further guide the instrument safely through the esophagus, colon or respiratory tract. Air is often used to inflate part of the gastrointestinal tract to allow viewing. Once the foreign object or abnormal area is located, specific instruments can be passed through the channel within the tube. By using the eyepiece and manipulating the tip of the endoscope, the instrument can be used to grasp an item or take biopsy samples. Once the procedure is complete, excess air is suctioned out of the intestinal tract and the endoscope is removed. Any biopsy samples taken are submitted to an outside laboratory for analysis. Results
