What Does Endoscopy Reveal?
Endoscopy can reveal if a foreign body is present within the stomach. It is also used to reveal if there are suspicious or abnormal areas within the stomach, intestine, colon or respiratory tract. If indicated, biopsies can be taken and analyzed. 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
