What are the 10 investigative procedures of the gastro intestinal system
1. Endoscopy: This involves the use of a flexible tube with a camera to examine the inside of the gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and colon.
2. Colonoscopy: A procedure that allows for visual examination of the entire colon and rectum using a colonoscope.
3. Upper gastrointestinal series: This involves swallowing a contrast dye that allows for X-rays to be taken of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine.
4. Barium swallow: Similar to an upper gastrointestinal series, this procedure involves swallowing a liquid containing barium, which helps to visualize the esophagus and stomach during a series of X-rays.
5. Barium enema: In this procedure, barium sulfate is introduced into the rectum and colon through an enema, and X-rays are taken to examine the lower gastrointestinal tract.
6. Sigmoidoscopy: A procedure that allows for visual examination of the sigmoid colon and rectum using a sigmoidoscope, which is a flexible tube with a camera.
7. Capsule endoscopy: This involves swallowing a small capsule containing a camera that takes pictures of the gastrointestinal tract as it passes through the system.
8. Gastrointestinal biopsies: This procedure involves taking small samples of tissue from the gastrointestinal tract to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease or abnormality.
9. Gastric emptying study: A test that measures the rate at which food empties from the stomach, usually done by ingesting food containing a small amount of radioactive material and using a scanner to track its movement.
10. Blood tests: While not a specific investigative procedure of the gastrointestinal system, blood tests can be useful in diagnosing gastrointestinal conditions by measuring various markers and levels of enzymes or substances related to the digestive system.