Gastroenterology Tests and Procedures
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Abdominal Ultrasound
Abdominal ultrasound is a procedure that uses sound wave technology to assess the organs, structures, and blood flow inside the abdomen.
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Abdominal X-rays
Abdominal X-rays are used to diagnose internal injuries or abnormalities of the bones and organs.
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Barium Enema
A barium enema is used to highlight damage or abnormalities in the colon and rectum by creating greater areas of contrast in x-ray film.
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Barium Swallow
During this procedure, a mixture of barium and water is swallowed just before an x-ray. The barium is used to highlight damage or abnormalities in the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the pharnyx, esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
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Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy uses a small camera to examine the inside of the colon. It is typically used to screen for colon cancer, and to asses other injuries, abnormalities, or disease.
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Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Abdomen
A CT/CAT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, organs, and blood vessels. CT/CAT scans are more detailed than standard x-rays and are used to assess the organs and tissues for for injuries, abnormalities, or disease.
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Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Liver and Biliary Tract
CT/CAT scans are more detailed than standard x-rays and are often used to assess the liver, gallbladder and bile ducts for for injuries, abnormalities, or disease.
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Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Pancreas
CT/CAT scans are more detailed than standard x-rays and are often used to assess the pancreas for injuries, abnormalities, or disease.
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Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a procedure in which x-ray and an endoscope - a long, flexible, lighted tube - are used to assess and treat problems in the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas.
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Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a diagnostic procedure used to diagnose structural or functional abnormalities of the esophagus, stomach, and/or duodenum.
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Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is a procedure that utilizes a laparoscope, a thin flexible tube containing a video camera to examine the organs of the abdominal cavity.
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Liver Biopsy
A liver biopsy is a procedure in which tissue samples from the liver are removed for examination under a microscope to look for signs of damage or disease. It is used to diagnose many liver conditions.
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Liver Scan
A liver scan - also known as a liver-spleen scan - uses nuclear radiology to assess the function and structure of the liver and surrounding organs. It may also be used to assess the progress of treatment for certain conditions.
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Pancreas Scan
A pancreas scan uses nuclear radiology to search for, and sometime treat, tumors in the pancreas.
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PEG Tube Placement
A percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube is a feeding tube that is surgically placed through your abdomen into your stomach.