Posted: 2007-08-16

Endoscopy Services

Introduction

Endoscopy is very useful in diagnosis – introducing a scope and seeing directly into the body provides additional data to complement physical exams and intake interviews.

The attending physician and specialist in gastroenterology, bronchoscopy or urology will guide the endoscope through the cavity or organ; simultaneously recording what the endoscope shows, and taking photographs of the most significant of the visual findings. If the physician considers it necessary, a biopsy – tissue sample – will be taken for subsequent analysis.

Endoscopy may be used to explore respiratory, digestive or urinary symptoms, and may also be used to take tissue samples that need to be analyzed.

Endoscopy Services has three endosuites for studying Urinary, Gastrointestinal and Respiratory tracts. These are equipped with endoscopy towers, anesthesia machines and monitors. There is also a recovery room where patients are cared for by nursing staff.

Information

Endoscopy is visual examination of internal organs and body cavities using a fiber-optic scope and camera, introduced through a natural orifice or via incision.

Before the endoscopy, an anesthesiologist administers sedatives intravenously to avoid discomfort or pain.

Equipment

• Panendoscope or upper endoscope, introduced through the mouth to visually examine various organs, including part of the duodenum.
• Colonoscope, introduced through the rectum to observe the large intestine.
• Bronchoscope, inserted through the mouth to observe the trachea and bronchi.
• Cystoscope, which allows observation of the bladder.
• Urethroscope, which observes the urethra.

Procedure

1. The gastroenterologist, pulmonologist or urologist schedules an appointment and requests that the patient comply with such necessary medical preparations as fasting or administration of an enema.

2. The patient must:

• Sign an informed consent letter which says that he or she is aware of, and understands, the purpose of the medical procedure.
• Bring no valuable belongings.
• Arrive accompanied by a family member.
• (In the case of colonoscopy) have had an enema.

Hours

To schedule a test, Monday to Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Telephones
Appointments:  52 (33) 3848-4000 extension 4012
Emergencies:   extension: 2167