A gastroscope is a medical instrument used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in the field of gastroenterology. It is a slender, flexible tube with a light source and a camera attached to its tip, allowing for the visualization and examination of the inside of the upper gastrointestinal tract.
Typically, a gastroscope is introduced through the mouth and guided down the esophagus, enabling physicians to inspect various structures such as the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine, known as the duodenum. The procedure is known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) or simply upper endoscopy.
The gastroscope consists of a long, flexible tube made of a durable material that can be easily maneuvered through the natural passages of the digestive system. The camera at the end of the device captures high-resolution images, which are transmitted to a monitor for real-time viewing by the medical professional conducting the procedure.
Besides visual examination, modern gastropscopes may also feature additional functions such as the ability to take biopsies for further evaluation or perform therapeutic interventions like the removal of polyps or treatment of bleeding lesions. These capabilities make a gastroscope an essential tool for diagnosing various gastrointestinal conditions, including ulcers, tumors, inflammation, or detecting abnormal changes in the lining of the digestive tract.
Overall, a gastroscope plays a crucial role in facilitating accurate and effective treatment decisions by providing detailed insight into the inner workings of the upper gastrointestinal system.
