What are the methods of examination of the gastrointestinal tract, how is the diagnosis carried out? Diagnosis of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: examination (research) of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract Laboratory studies of the gastrointestinal tract.

In gastroenterological practice, there are a considerable number of different diseases, some of which can be very dangerous and lead to the development of severe complications.

According to statistics, every second person on earth suffers from one or another pathology of the digestive system. That is why it is extremely important to conduct a timely examination of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), which will allow the specialist to develop an effective treatment strategy.

Today, there are quite a few modern diagnostic methods that allow for a comprehensive study of all organs and departments of the gastrointestinal tract, to identify the disease as soon as possible and with maximum reliability, to clarify its stage, prevalence and other features.

Research methods used in gastroenterology can be divided into three groups:

physical;
laboratory;
instrumental.

Instrumental methods, in turn, can be divided into secretion studies, endoscopic and radiation studies.

The expediency of prescribing a particular examination will be determined by the doctor in the process of working with the patient.

Contraindications

Each of the methods of examining the stomach has its own contraindications, which should be clarified with a doctor. Physical, radiation and laboratory techniques have practically no contraindications - most of the prohibitions relate to endoscopic techniques, as they involve interference with the work of the stomach and intestines, and in some diseases can cause side effects.

Absolute contraindications to gastroscopy, EGD and other endoscopic techniques include:

severe mental disorders;
diseases of the cardiovascular system (heart failure, heart attack, atherosclerosis, aortic aneurysm);
depletion of the body;
serious disorders of the immune system;
obesity;
rachiocampsis;
hematopoietic disorders;
phlebeurysm;
acute period of gastric ulcer.

Relative contraindications include: angina pectoris, exacerbations of chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and upper respiratory tract, neurasthenia, swollen lymph nodes.

To find out in what ways it is better to conduct an examination of the stomach and intestines in a particular case, you need to show the doctor a medical card and, if necessary, undergo a comprehensive examination of the body.

Preparation for examination of the gastrointestinal tract

To get accurate results of the diagnosis of the gastrointestinal tract, you need to properly prepare for any examination. Preparation depends on the research method and most often consists of the following:

diet, which must be observed for 2-3 days before the examination - you need to eat only easily digestible food, exclude foods that cause gas formation and bloating;
taking drugs for bowel cleansing or enemas (need try to clear the digestive tract completely so that the doctor can examine the entire abdominal cavity);
stop taking medications, especially those that affect digestion, thin the blood and contain iron (if this is not possible, it is necessary to report all medicines to the doctor);
1-2 days before the visit to the clinic, you need to give up serious physical exertion, the use of alcoholic beverages and smoking.

Most studies are performed on an outpatient basis, but in some cases, patients have to go to the hospital.

Adults usually do not require any additional medications, but children are sometimes given general anesthesia (during gastroscopy and other endoscopic examinations). When conducting a diagnosis, the patient needs to carefully listen to the doctor and follow all his instructions so that the procedure is as informative and painless as possible.

Is there an alternative to gastroscopy?

Gastroscopy is an unpleasant research method, and many patients are interested in the question: is it possible to do without it during a comprehensive examination of the gastrointestinal tract? The use of modern computer techniques (CT, MRI) allows you to minimize discomfort, but they do not always give an accurate result, and the procedure is quite expensive and is not offered in all medical institutions.

An alternative to invasive methods can be a capsule technique - endoscopy of the gastrointestinal tract using a capsule. Its essence is as follows: the patient swallows a capsule equipped with a miniature video camera, which takes one picture of the organ every second. It passes through the entire gastrointestinal tract, after which it leaves it naturally, and the doctor reviews the obtained images, identifies pathologies and makes a diagnosis. The capsule technique is considered the "gold standard" for the diagnosis of the digestive tract, but is used only in modern gastroenterological centers.

Some medical institutions use non-traditional methods for diagnosing diseases - for example, iridology. It is based on the theory that all pathological processes occurring in the body can be detected by examining the iris of the eye. The use of such diagnostic methods raises many questions among many specialists, therefore, it cannot be considered an informative technique.

You can do without the unpleasant procedure of probing the stomach and intestines, but if other diagnostic methods do not give a complete picture of the disease, it is better to agree to gastroscopy.

Physical research

The first stage of a gastroenterological examination is a consultation with a gastroenterologist or therapist, who must collect an anamnesis of the patient's complaints and compile an overall clinical picture. The doctor conducts a more detailed examination using special methods: palpation, percussion, auscultation.

Palpation is a procedure in which the patient's abdomen is felt without the use of any additional instruments. This method allows you to detect certain signs characteristic of some diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, in particular, to identify the degree of tension of the peritoneal wall and painful areas. Palpation can be performed while the patient is standing or lying on the couch. In a standing position, palpation is performed in cases where it is necessary to examine the organs located on the sides of the abdominal cavity.

Usually, simultaneously with palpation, percussion- a study that allows you to determine the boundaries of the location of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract by tapping. In gastroenterological practice, this technique is mainly used to study the spleen and liver.

Diagnosis by auscultation involves listening to the sounds that the organs of the gastrointestinal tract emit. To do this, the doctor uses a special tool - a stethophonendoscope. During the procedure, symmetrical parts of the body are listened to, and the results are then compared.

The above diagnostic studies are only primary and do not allow a specialist to accurately diagnose a particular gastrointestinal disease. So, for example, physical methods practically do not allow a specialist to identify organic pathologies of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract with a predominant lesion of their mucous membrane. This requires a more complete examination, the plan of which is drawn up individually for each patient and may include a number of different clinical, laboratory and instrumental methods.

Laboratory tests

Laboratory diagnostics plays an important role in the detection of many diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. At the discretion of the doctor, the patient may be assigned blood tests to determine the following substances and enzymes:

bilirubin- a special substance formed after the breakdown of erythrocyte hemoglobin and which is part of bile. The detection of direct bilirubin in the blood may indicate a number of pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract associated with a violation of the outflow of bile, for example, obstructive or parenchymal jaundice;

transaminases: aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) - these enzymes function in almost all organs of the human body, especially in the liver and muscle tissues. An increased concentration of AST and ALT is observed in various hepatic diseases, including chronic ones;

gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (gamma-GT)- another enzyme, an elevated level of which indicates inflammation of the bile ducts, hepatitis or obstructive jaundice;

amylase- this enzyme is produced by the pancreas, and as part of its juice, amylase enters the intestine, where it contributes to the accelerated digestion of carbohydrates. If the level of amylase in the blood is elevated, most likely the patient has some kind of pancreatic disease;

lipase- another enzyme produced by the pancreas, the level of which increases with pancreatitis and other pathologies of the digestive system.

In addition, the study of feces can detect microorganisms that are the causative agents of infectious diseases.

A more detailed study of feces is called a coprogram. With its help, the digestive and enzymatic activity of the stomach is assessed, signs of inflammation are detected, microbial activity is also analyzed, fungal mycelium can be detected.

If necessary, a bacteriological study can be prescribed, that is, the determination of the microbial composition. This will detect intestinal dysbacteriosis, infections. There are also special tests for the detection of antigens of microbial pathogens, making it possible to identify viral infectious diseases.

Another common laboratory test widely used in gastroenterology is the occult bleeding test. This analysis is based on the detection of latent hemoglobin in the feces.

If the patient is taking iron supplements or other medications, the attending physician must be informed about this, as medications can significantly distort the test results. Before donating blood, you must follow a special diet for several days, excluding fatty foods, meat, green vegetables and tomatoes from the diet.

If necessary, laboratory diagnostics of the gastrointestinal tract can be supplemented by such studies as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) of feces and blood plasma.

Instrumental techniques

The most important section of a comprehensive examination of patients with gastrointestinal pathologies is instrumental diagnostics. It includes endoscopic, radiological, ultrasound, electrometric and other diagnostic techniques.

The appointment of a particular study in order to obtain the most common information occurs at the discretion of the attending physician, depending on the existing clinical picture. Each of the instrumental methods makes it possible to evaluate the structural and morphological features of the organ under study, as well as its function. Most of these studies require special preparation from the patient, since their information content and reliability will depend on it.

Assessment of gastric acid secretion

Since most inflammatory diseases of the digestive system are characterized by a change in the acidity of the stomach. That is why, during a diagnostic examination, an assessment of the secretion of gastric acid necessary for adequate digestion of food, using a special technique called pH-metry, can be shown. Indications for its implementation are peptic ulcer of the duodenum and stomach, chronic duodenitis, gastritis and other pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract.

There are several types of pH-metry in gastroenterology: short-term (intragastric), long-term (daily), endoscopic. Each of these methods involves the introduction of a pH-metric probe through the mouth or nasal opening into the corresponding section of the digestive system for a certain period. The level of acidity is measured at a specific point using built-in electrodes.

In endoscopic pH-metry, the probe is inserted through a special instrumental channel of the endoscope.

Any type of pH measurement requires some preparation. First, the patient should not smoke or eat at least twelve hours before the procedure. Secondly, a few hours before the study, the use of any liquids is prohibited, in order to avoid the occurrence of vomiting and aspiration. Additionally, you should consult with your doctor about the medications you are taking.

Another common procedure used in gastroenterological practice for suspected gastritis, peptic ulcer and many other pathologies is duodenal sounding of the stomach. When conducting a study of the secretory function of the stomach in this way, all contents are first pumped out of the stomach, and then the basal secret. After that, the patient is stimulated with secretion with the help of special preparations or is given a trial breakfast in the form of broth, after half an hour a fifteen-minute secretion is taken, which is then studied in the laboratory. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia on an empty stomach.

Gastric probing is a procedure that has a number of contraindications. It cannot be carried out in case of severe pathologies of the cardiovascular system, gastric bleeding, as well as during pregnancy.

If the patient has contraindications to duodenal sounding of the stomach, secretion is assessed by a tubeless method using the Acidotest preparation. The test is also carried out in the morning on an empty stomach. Analysis of the secretory function of the stomach is carried out by examining portions of urine after taking the drug.

Endoscopic techniques

Endoscopic examination of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract involves the introduction of special optical instruments into its lumen.

To date, this is the most technologically advanced procedure that allows you to get a complete picture of the condition and functioning of the large and small intestines, as well as to conduct a biopsy - to obtain a sample of material for further histological examination.

The endoscopic methods for examining the gastrointestinal tract include the following diagnostic procedures:

FGDS (fibrogastroduodenoscopy) is a whole complex of gastroenterological studies, which consists in examining the organs of the gastrointestinal Tartak using a probe. Depending on the diagnosed disease, the patient may be prescribed procedures such as gastroscopy (examination of the stomach), duodenoscopy (examination of the duodenum), esophagoscopy (examination of the esophagus); colonoscopy examination of the inner surface of the large intestine using a colonoscope inserted into the anus. Today, such an ultra-modern method as virtual colonoscopy is also used, in which you can get a clear image of the intestinal walls using computed tomography; sigmoidoscopy a high-tech method for examining the mucous membrane of the rectum using a special optical device - a sigmoidoscope. It is inserted through the anus for only a few minutes, and anesthesia is usually not required; ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) is an additional diagnostic procedure aimed at examining the condition of the bile ducts, into which a contrast agent is injected using endoscopic equipment. After that, an x-ray is taken; Capsule endoscopy is the most advanced way to examine all parts of the gastrointestinal tract. The patient is required to swallow a small capsule equipped with a mini video camera, which will transmit images to a computer as it progresses, after which it will come out naturally.

This procedure allows to diagnose oncological tumors and other pathologies with high accuracy;

Diagnostic laparoscopy, this procedure is usually prescribed in cases where it is not possible to accurately determine the cause of the disease. When it is carried out, a puncture is performed in the anterior abdominal wall, through which carbon dioxide is first pumped, and then endoscopic equipment is introduced. Using this imaging method, you can detect bleeding, foci of inflammation and other pathologies, and, if necessary, immediately take therapeutic measures.

As a rule, endoscopic methods for examining the gastrointestinal tract are not used if the patient has an allergy to anesthetic drugs, as well as pathologies associated with impaired blood clotting. In addition, they all require special training, which will be discussed in detail by the attending physician.

Radiation techniques

As the name implies, it is customary to refer to radiation methods for examining the gastrointestinal tract those that involve the use of radiation. The most widely used in gastroenterology are the following methods:

Fluoroscopy or radiography study of the abdominal organs by performing x-rays. Usually, before the procedure, the patient needs to consume barium porridge, which is opaque to x-rays and makes it possible to visualize almost all pathological changes well; ultrasound examination of the abdominal cavity examination of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract using ultrasound radiation. A variety of ultrasound is the so-called dopplerometry, which allows you to assess the speed of blood flow and movement of the walls of organs; scintigraphy study of the activity of the gastrointestinal tract using radioactive isotopes that the patient consumes with food. The process of its progress is fixed with the help of special equipment; computer and magnetic resonance imaging, these studies are prescribed only when absolutely necessary, if you suspect tumor neoplasms, cholelithiasis and other pathological conditions.

Histological methods

Examination of the gastrointestinal tract sometimes requires a biopsy - this is an analysis of pieces of mucosal tissue (biopsy specimens) taken during endoscopic examination. A biopsy is performed to make an accurate diagnosis, determine the stage and characteristics of the pathological process in gastritis, peptic ulcer, gastric and intestinal neoplasms, and to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. Biopsy specimens are processed in an appropriate way, after which they are examined under a microscope, which allows you to get a complete picture of the disease.

The disadvantage of the histological method is that it often causes side effects and bleeding.

Possibilities of modern gastroenterology

Today, many modern clinics offer their patients such a service as a comprehensive examination of the gastrointestinal tract, which can be done, both if you suspect a disease of any organ of the digestive system, or for preventive purposes. Comprehensive diagnostics involves the use of a combination of various methods that allow you to assess the state of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, to get the most complete picture of the existing violations.

Such an extended diagnosis may be necessary for those patients who suffer from a complex disease of unknown etiology, accompanied by metabolic disorders and other serious symptoms. The capabilities of modern gastroenterological clinics allow for a comprehensive examination of patients using the latest generation of medical equipment, with which you can get the most accurate research results in a short time.

The list of analyzes and studies carried out may vary depending on the specific diagnostic program.

Pathology detected: is it necessary to double-check?

If pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract are detected after a comprehensive diagnosis, the patient is prescribed a course of treatment, but there are situations when patients do not agree with the diagnosis. If the examination was carried out in a free clinic using old equipment, it can indeed be erroneous. To prevent unpleasant consequences, you can undergo control diagnostics in a more modern medical institution.

Stages of a complete examination of the digestive organs and their cost

A complete examination of the gastrointestinal tract usually includes the following steps:

consultations of specialists (therapist, gastroenterologist);
blood tests: general, biochemical, liver tests, tests for infections, including hepatitis and Helicobacter pylori;
Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity;
gastroscopy.

The cost of the basic research program is about 20 thousand rubles, but may vary depending on additional procedures and the pricing policy of the medical institution.

Time to complete the full study

The time of complex diagnostics depends on the number of procedures that need to be completed - the basic program usually takes 1-2 days, but if additional studies are necessary, the period may be delayed.

After the age of 40, a complete examination of the gastrointestinal tract is recommended once a year, even in the absence of digestive problems. People at this age significantly increase the risk of developing serious diseases, including oncological processes, and with early diagnosis, the chances of a full recovery increase significantly.

How to check the gastrointestinal tract quickly, cheaply and informatively?

For a quick and informative check of the gastrointestinal tract, you need to find a good gastroenterological clinic with modern equipment.

Diagnostics can be done at any public medical institution, where some services are provided free of charge, but in this case, the time for completing all procedures will increase significantly.

conclusions

Comprehensive diagnosis of the gastrointestinal tract may include different procedures, depending on the primary diagnosis, age and well-being of the patient.
The key to obtaining accurate examination results is proper preparation, which begins a few days before the visit to the clinic.
Most diagnostic procedures are painless and safe, with the exception of endoscopic techniques, which are associated with certain discomfort and the risk of side effects.
To reduce the time required for a complete examination of the digestive system, reduce the likelihood of discomfort and misdiagnosis, you need to go to a good clinic with modern equipment.

A comprehensive study of the gastrointestinal tract is a guarantee of the health of the digestive system and a way to avoid serious health problems that can lead to digestive disorders.

Diagnostics should be carried out regularly even in the absence of symptoms of diseases for preventive purposes and carefully monitor the condition of the stomach and intestines.

In gastroenterological practice, there are a considerable number of different diseases, some of which can be very dangerous and lead to the development of severe complications. According to statistics, every second person on earth suffers from one or another pathology of the digestive system. That is why it is extremely important to conduct a timely examination of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), which will allow the specialist to develop an effective treatment strategy.

physical;
laboratory;
instrumental.

Instrumental methods, in turn, can be divided into secretion studies, endoscopic and radiation studies. The expediency of prescribing a particular examination will be determined by the doctor in the process of working with the patient.

Physical research

Palpation is a procedure in which the patient's abdomen is felt without the use of any additional instruments. This method allows you to detect certain signs characteristic of some diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, in particular, to identify the degree of tension of the peritoneal wall and painful areas. Palpation can be performed while the patient is standing or lying on the couch. In a standing position, palpation is performed in cases where it is necessary to examine the organs located on the sides of the abdominal cavity.

Usually, along with palpation, percussion is performed - a study that allows you to determine the boundaries of the location of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract by tapping. In gastroenterological practice, this technique is mainly used to study the spleen and liver.

Diagnosis using auscultation involves listening to the sounds that the organs of the gastrointestinal tract emit. To do this, the doctor uses a special tool - a stethophonendoscope. During the procedure, symmetrical parts of the body are listened to, and the results are then compared.

Laboratory tests

bilirubin is a special substance formed after the breakdown of hemoglobin in red blood cells and is part of bile. The detection of direct bilirubin in the blood may indicate a number of pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract associated with a violation of the outflow of bile, for example, obstructive or parenchymal jaundice;

transaminases: aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) - these enzymes function in almost all organs of the human body, especially in the liver and muscle tissues. An increased concentration of AST and ALT is observed in various hepatic diseases, including chronic ones;

gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (gamma-GT) - another enzyme, an elevated level of which indicates inflammation of the bile ducts, hepatitis or obstructive jaundice;

amylase - this enzyme is produced by the pancreas, and as part of its juice, amylase enters the intestines, where it contributes to the accelerated digestion of carbohydrates. If the level of amylase in the blood is elevated, most likely the patient has some kind of pancreatic disease;

lipase is another enzyme produced by the pancreas, the level of which increases with pancreatitis and other pathologies of the digestive system.

In addition, a general analysis of feces is mandatory, which will allow the specialist to assess the overall functioning of the digestive system, detect signs of disorders and inflammation of various parts of the intestine. In addition, the study of feces can detect microorganisms that are the causative agents of infectious diseases.

Another common laboratory test widely used in gastroenterology is the occult bleeding test. This analysis is based on the detection of latent hemoglobin in the feces.

If necessary, laboratory diagnostics of the gastrointestinal tract can be supplemented by such studies as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) of feces and blood plasma.

Instrumental techniques

Assessment of gastric acid secretion

Endoscopic techniques

Endoscopic examination of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract involves the introduction of special optical instruments into its lumen. To date, this is the most technologically advanced procedure that allows you to get a complete picture of the condition and functioning of the large and small intestines, as well as to conduct a biopsy - to obtain a sample of material for further histological examination.

The endoscopic methods for examining the gastrointestinal tract include the following diagnostic procedures:

Radiation techniques

fluoroscopy or x-ray examination of the abdominal organs by taking x-rays. Usually, before the procedure, the patient needs to consume barium porridge, which is opaque to x-rays and makes it possible to visualize almost all pathological changes well; ultrasound examination of the abdominal cavity examination of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract using ultrasound radiation. A variety of ultrasound is the so-called dopplerometry, which allows you to assess the speed of blood flow and movement of the walls of organs; scintigraphy study of the activity of the gastrointestinal tract using radioactive isotopes that the patient consumes with food. The process of its progress is fixed with the help of special equipment; computer and magnetic resonance imaging, these studies are prescribed only when absolutely necessary in case of suspicion of tumor neoplasms, cholelithiasis and other pathological conditions.

Possibilities of modern gastroenterology

The presence of symptoms such as:

smell from the mouth
stomach ache
heartburn
diarrhea
constipation
nausea, vomiting
belching
increased gas production (flatulence)

If you have at least 2 of these symptoms, then this indicates a developing

gastritis or ulcer.

These diseases are dangerous for the development of serious complications (penetration, gastric bleeding, etc.), many of which can lead to

exodus. Treatment needs to start now.

Read an article about how a woman got rid of these symptoms by defeating their root cause. Read the material ...

It is quite difficult to determine the disease in any patient without the use of modern technologies. There are diseases that cause the same symptoms, so in most cases, patients complaining of gastrointestinal problems (gastrointestinal tract), doctors prescribe instrumental, laboratory or x-ray studies. These research methods accurately determine the diseased organ, find out the cause and help draw up recommendations for the treatment of the gastrointestinal tract.

The main methods of diagnosing

Instrumental examination of the gastrointestinal tract

Methods for studying diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are divided into several categories:

Do you have hemorrhoids?

Mikhail Rotonov: “The only remedy that is suitable for the full treatment of hemorrhoids and which I could recommend is ...” >>

Physical research. The simplest methods of examination: palpation, percussion.
Instrumental methods. Capsule endoscopy, fibroesophagogastroduodenoscopy, colonoscopy.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
X-ray methods. X-ray, computed tomography (CRT), irrigoscopy.
Ultrasound procedure.
Method for detecting the bacterium Helicobacter pylori.
Other technologies (probing).

Physical research

Until recently, a physical examination was the only way for a doctor to determine the disease. Now this technique is used less and less, especially in developed countries.

Palpation

Palpation is used to examine the gastrointestinal tract

Manual examination of the patient. To identify diseases of the digestive tract, there are certain methods of palpation, which are gradually disappearing from the medical arsenal.

Percussion

Tapping of certain organs. The doctor by sound determines the presence of the development of pathology.

Instrumental research methods

From the name it follows that special tools and devices are used for diagnostics.

Fibroesophagogastroduodenoscopy

Examination of the gastrointestinal tract with an endoscope, in which the tip is equipped with a small television camera. Examine the esophagus, duodenum, stomach. It is carried out both in emergency cases and in chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Diagnosis with an endoscope is contraindicated for burns of the esophagus, respiratory failure and heart problems.

Colonoscopy

Examination of the colon mucosa with a fibrocolonoscope - a special probe with a television camera.

Sigmoidoscopy

Examination of the colon to a depth of 25 centimeters using a rectoscope - a lighting device capable of supplying air. Done quickly and efficiently. When examining the sigmoid colon, a rectosigmoid colonoscopy is prescribed, during which doctors usually also perform a biopsy - the collection of suspicious tissues for analysis.

Video capsule endoscopy

The patient swallows small capsules, as they pass through the gastrointestinal system, they take a picture, according to which the gastroenterologist will be able to determine which of the gastrointestinal diseases the patient has.

X-ray examinations

Fluoroscopy of the gastrointestinal tract

X-ray images and today remain one of the important methods for diagnosing various diseases. With their help, doctors can see the changes taking place in the organs.

Fluoroscopy

It is carried out to examine various organs by taking x-ray images after filling the organs with a barium suspension.

CRT or computed tomography

This is a virtual diagnosis, which is carried out by a tomograph to determine changes in the condition of the colon, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, appendix, spleen, intestines, detect polyps and tumors in them.

"Doctors hide the truth!"

Even "neglected" hemorrhoids can be cured at home, without surgery and hospitals. Just remember to apply once a day...

Ultrasound procedure

Ultrasound of the gastrointestinal tract is used to detect diseases associated with pathological changes in the contour of organs, accumulation of fluids.

Ultrasound methods for the study of diseases of the gastrointestinal system are not as effective as others, and therefore are usually used in conjunction with additional methods.

Magnetic resonance imaging

Computed tomography is used to examine the gastrointestinal tract

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in many cases helps doctors make a diagnosis. The study is carried out without radiation hazardous to health, without the use of chemical additives for a contrast image. Gives clear pictures of the digestive tract.

Methods for detecting bacteria Helicobacter pylori

These methods are effective for detecting gastric and duodenal ulcers. According to the latest scientists, due to the defeat of the gastrointestinal tract by bacteria, this problem occurs in most cases. To determine the source of diseases, diagnosis involves histological studies, the determination of antigens in feces and blood, and breath tests with urea.

Other Methods

Methods for examining the digestive tract

There are other methods for detecting diseases of the digestive system, such as gastric probing. A particle of the contents of the organ is sucked off with a probe and sent for analysis to the laboratory.

Possible consequences

To examine the gastrointestinal tract, such methods are simply necessary, but the patient should be aware that in some cases they can lead to some complications. True, this happens extremely rarely, not always due to negligence of doctors, in many respects the result depends on the patient himself and his mood.

Research risks:

with instrumental methods, bleeding, damage to the walls of the gastrointestinal tract, psychological trauma, the development of aspiration pneumonia and serum hepatitis are possible;
x-ray examinations are dangerous because they irradiate the patient, they cannot be carried out often.
safer methods may not show an accurate picture of the pathology and lead to erroneous data.

About the diagnosis of the digestive tract:

Diagnosis of diseases in Israel

Israel is considered one of the leading countries where medicine has reached the highest level. Diagnostics of the gastrointestinal tract is carried out using modern technologies and qualified doctors.

Before going for a diagnosis, you need to consult a doctor, sometimes a one-day diet is required for the study, adherence to a special diet.

After examining the gastrointestinal tract, the doctor determines the methods of treatment. In Israel, all conditions have been created for patients so that they can quickly recover, feel calm and be sure that they will be helped.

How to treat hemorrhoids at home

Have you ever tried to get rid of hemorrhoids at home on your own? Judging by the fact that you are reading this article, the victory was not on your side. And of course you know firsthand what it is:

once again see blood on paper;
wake up in the morning with the thought of how to reduce swollen painful bumps;
suffer every trip to the toilet from discomfort, itching or an unpleasant burning sensation;
again and again to hope for success, to look forward to the results and be upset by the new ineffective drug.

Now answer the question: does it suit you? Is it possible to put up with this? And how much money have you already “leaked” on ineffective drugs? That's right - it's time to end them! Do you agree? That is why we bring to your attention the method of Marta Volkova, who spoke about an effective and inexpensive way to get rid of HEMORRHOIDS forever in just 5 days ... Read the article

Useful articles

Add a comment, tell us what you think about it

, gastroenterologist

After 30 years, the aging process is already starting in the body - the metabolism slows down, the body does not easily tolerate strict diets or, conversely, overeating.

In our youth, we often take our health rather lightly and go to the doctor only when the disease has already made itself felt. It is not right. And the older you get, the more important it is to change this approach to your health. It is necessary to carefully monitor all body systems, including the gastrointestinal tract. Elena Igorevna Pozharitskaya, a gastroenterologist of the Semeynaya clinic network, told about how to properly examine the gastrointestinal tract after 30 years.

After 30 years, the aging process is already starting in the body - the metabolism slows down, the body does not easily tolerate strict diets or, conversely, overeating. The risk of stomach problems increases. And, as you know, the disease is easier to prevent than to cure. Therefore, after 30, it is important to regularly undergo examinations of the gastrointestinal tract - in order to timely identify the risks of certain pathologies.

Examinations of the gastrointestinal tract

Here are 4 examinations of the gastrointestinal tract, which must be done after 30 years:

1. Ultrasound- the simplest, non-invasive, but still informative examination. With the help of ultrasound, you can assess the condition of the spleen, pancreas, gallbladder and liver. Ultrasound will help identify diseases such as cirrhosis of the liver, cholecystitis, the presence of stones in the gallbladder, cysts, neoplasms, anomalies in the structure of organs, internal injuries of the abdominal organs, as well as a number of some chronic disorders.

The presence of gases in the stomach can qualitatively interfere with an ultrasound examination, therefore, 1 day before the procedure, it is important to exclude from consumption products that increase gas formation and cause bloating (legumes, bread, flour, sweets, raw vegetables and fruits containing fiber, sauerkraut, milk, carbonated drinks, alcohol). The last meal should be taken no later than 5-6 hours before the study. You can do an ultrasound as often as necessary for health reasons. For a scheduled inspection, it is enough to do it once a year.

2. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy- examination of the mucous membrane of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum using a gastroscope (it is inserted through the mouth), which is used if erosion or an ulcer is suspected, and also often helps to clarify the presence of diseases of neighboring organs - the pancreas and gallbladder. The examination, like others, is carried out on an empty stomach, to facilitate the insertion of the gastroscope, local anesthesia is used - irrigation of the mucosa with anesthetics.

- a method that allows you to measure acidity directly in the esophagus, stomach and duodenum, to diagnose the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus (gastroesophageal reflux), as well as reflux from the duodenum into the stomach. If these conditions are prolonged, then this can lead to the development of inflammation of the esophagus, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and the reflux of bile into the stomach can lead to erosions and even ulcers.

4. Colonoscopy- Examination of the rectum and colon with an endoscope. This procedure is invasive and is prescribed by a doctor when other diagnostic methods have been exhausted. During this study, the doctor can not only "live" see the condition of the colon mucosa, but also take a piece of tissue to confirm the diagnosis. It is enough to pass every 5 years after 50 years in the absence of risk factors. Colonoscopy after 30 years for healthy patients is recommended in the presence of clear indications, such as: oncological diseases of the colon in first-line relatives under the age of 40, hereditary colon polyposis. Inflammatory diseases of the colon, such as Crohn's disease and Ulcerative colitis, have a characteristic clinical picture, and if a doctor suspects this pathology, non-invasive diagnostic methods prescribed by the doctor are initially used to confirm the diagnosis, with positive results of these methods, a colonoscopy is performed to determine the extent of the lesion , morphological research. 72 hours before the procedure, it is necessary to exclude from the diet fatty foods, legumes, sweets, coffee, foods rich in fiber (fruits, vegetables), milk, cereals. It is better to give preference to liquid food and drink a lot. A light snack is possible 1.5 hours before the examination.

Watch your health!

Making an appointment with a gastroenterologist

Be sure to consult a qualified specialist in the field of gastrointestinal diseases at the Semeynaya clinic.

The appointment of examinations of the gastrointestinal tract is based on the symptoms that the patient presents, and in order to control and prevent diagnosed chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Indications for diagnostic procedures can be: difficult and painful digestion (dyspepsia), regular nausea, vomiting, heartburn, stomach pain, suspicion of oncopathology.

To date, the most accurate examination of the gastrointestinal tract is fibrogastroduodenoscopy. During FGDS, the gastroenterologist has the opportunity to assess in detail the condition of the gastric mucosa and duodenum, and make the only correct diagnosis. The complexity of the examination lies in the inability of some patients to swallow a flexible hose equipped with a video camera.

Many people ignore the procedure precisely because of the discomfort. Therefore, it would be useful to find out how to check the stomach without gastroscopy in order to timely diagnose one or another pathology. In addition to the vegetative prejudice to FGDS, there are a number of contraindications to its implementation: a history of hemostasis (blood clotting) disorders, bronchial asthma, emetic hyperreflex.

In such cases, other methods of examining the stomach are prescribed. Diagnosis of diseases and abnormalities in the work of the stomach is carried out in three main areas: a physical set of measures, a laboratory study of the patient's tests, an examination using medical diagnostic equipment, and alternative endoscopy.

Easy Diagnosis

Simple diagnostic methods are mandatory for use when a patient complains of an acute abdomen, nausea, and other symptoms of gastric diseases.

Physical examination

Physical activities are carried out at the doctor's appointment, the results depend on the qualifications of the medical specialist. The complex includes:

study of anamnesis, evaluation of symptoms according to the patient;
visual examination of the mucous membranes;
feeling painful areas of the body (palpation);
palpation in a specific position of the body (percussion).

Based on the results obtained during such an examination, it is extremely difficult to diagnose the disease. The doctor may suspect the presence of a pathology, but deeper research methods are needed to confirm it.

Microscopic laboratory diagnostics

Laboratory methods consist in taking samples from the patient for further study and evaluation of the results. Most often, the following physical and chemical studies are prescribed:

general urine analysis;
coprogram (fecal analysis);
clinical blood test. The number of all types of blood cells (erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets) is counted, the level of hemoglobin is determined;
gastropanel. This blood test is aimed at studying the condition of the gastric mucosa. Based on its results, the following are established: the presence of antibodies to Helicobacter pylori bacteria, the level of pepsinogen proteins produced, the level of the polypeptide hormone - gastrin, which regulates the acidic environment in the stomach;
blood biochemistry. Quantitative indicators of bilirubin, liver enzymes, cholesterol and other blood cells are established.

Blood sampling for clinical analysis is carried out from a finger

Analyzes help to identify inflammatory processes and other disorders of the organs and systems. If the results differ significantly from the normative indicators, the patient is assigned an instrumental or hardware examination.

Application of hardware techniques

Examination of the stomach without gastroscopy is carried out with the participation of special medical devices. They record the state of the mucosa, density, size and other parameters of the organ, and transmit information that is subject to subsequent decoding by a specialist.

x-ray examination (with the use of contrast);
CT and MRI (computed and magnetic resonance imaging);
EGG (electrogastrography) and EGEG (electrogastroenterography);
Ultrasound (ultrasound examination).

During gastric examination by hardware, all manipulations are performed without direct intervention in the body, without damaging the external tissues of the body (non-invasively). The procedures do not cause pain in the patient.

Significant disadvantages of the method include low information content in the initial period of the disease, X-ray irradiation unsafe for health, side effects from taking a barium solution.

X-ray with contrast

The method is based on the use of x-rays. To improve visualization of the stomach, the patient drinks a barium solution before the examination. This substance plays the role of a contrast, under the influence of which soft tissues acquire the ability to absorb x-rays. Barium darkens the organs of the digestive system in the picture, which allows you to detect possible pathologies.

X-ray helps in determining the following changes:

improper arrangement of organs (displacement);
condition of the lumen of the esophagus and stomach (enlargement or narrowing);
non-compliance of organs with standard sizes;
hypo- or hypertonicity of the muscles of organs;
a niche in the filling defect (most often, this is a symptom of peptic ulcer disease).

CT scan

In fact, this is the same x-ray, only modified, with advanced diagnostic capabilities. The examination is carried out after preliminary filling of the stomach with liquid for a clearer view.

In addition, an iodine-based contrast agent is injected intravenously to highlight blood vessels on the tomogram. CT, as a rule, is used for suspected tumor processes of oncological etiology. The method allows you to find out not only the presence of stomach cancer in a patient and its stage, but also the degree of involvement of adjacent organs in the oncological process.

Imperfection of diagnostics consists in irradiation of the patient with X-rays, possible allergic reactions to contrast, as well as the inability of CT to fully and detailed study of the digestive tract, since its hollow tissues are difficult to diagnose using CT. The procedure is not performed for women in the perinatal period.

MR imaging

The prerogative aspects of MRI are the use of magnetic waves safe for the patient, the ability to determine the initial stage of gastric cancer. In addition, this diagnosis is prescribed for suspected ulcers, intestinal obstruction and gastritis, to assess the adjacent lymphatic system, and to detect foreign objects in the gastrointestinal tract. The disadvantages include contraindications:

body weight 130+;
the presence in the body of metal medical items (vascular clips, pacemaker, Ilizarov apparatus, inner ear prostheses);
rather high cost and inaccessibility for peripheral hospitals.

Examination of the gastrointestinal tract on magnetic resonance imaging is often performed with contrast

EGG and EGEG

Using these methods, the stomach and intestines are evaluated during the period of peristaltic contractions. A special device reads the impulses of electrical signals that come from the organs during their contraction during the digestion of food. As an independent study, it is practically not used. They are used only as an auxiliary diagnostics. The disadvantages are the long time period of the procedure (about three hours) and the inability of the electrical appliance to establish other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

ultrasound

Diagnosis of the stomach by ultrasound, most often, is carried out as part of a comprehensive examination of the abdominal organs. However, unlike the indicators of other organs (liver, pancreas, gallbladder, kidneys), it is not possible to examine the stomach completely. There is no complete picture of the organ.

In this regard, the list of diagnosed diseases is limited:

abnormal change in the size of the organ, swelling of the walls;
purulent inflammation and the presence of fluid in the stomach;
limited accumulation of blood in case of damage to the organ with rupture of blood vessels (hematomas);
narrowing (stenosis) of the lumen;
tumor formations;
protrusion of the walls (diverticulosis) of the esophagus;
intestinal obstruction.

Ultrasound examination of the abdominal organs is preferably carried out annually

The main disadvantage of all hardware diagnostic procedures is that the medical specialist examines only external changes in the stomach and adjacent organs. In this case, it is impossible to determine the acidity of the stomach, to take tissues for further laboratory analysis (biopsy).

Addition to hardware diagnostics

An additional method is Acidotest (taking a combined medical preparation to establish approximate indicators of the pH of the gastric environment). The first dose of medication is taken after emptying the bladder. After 60 minutes, the patient gives a urine test and takes a second dose. After an hour and a half, urine is taken again.

Before testing, it is forbidden to eat food for eight hours. Urine analysis reveals the presence of a dye in it. This allows you to roughly determine the acidity of the stomach without gastroscopy. Acidotest does not give 100% effectiveness, but only indirectly indicates a reduced (increased) level of acidity.

Alternative Endoscopy

Closest to EGD in terms of information content is capsule endoscopy. The examination is carried out without swallowing the probe, and at the same time it reveals a number of pathologies that are inaccessible to hardware procedures:

chronic ulcerative and erosive lesions;
gastritis, gastroduodenitis, reflux;
neoplasms of any etiology;
helminth infestations;
inflammatory processes in the small intestine (enteritis);
cause of systematic indigestion;
Crohn's disease.

The diagnostic method is carried out by introducing a capsule with a meager video camera into the patient's body. There is no need for an instrumental introduction. The weight of the microdevice does not exceed six grams, the shell is made of polymer. This makes it easy to swallow the capsule with a sufficient amount of water. The video camera data is transmitted to the device installed on the patient's waist, the indications from which are taken by the doctor after 8-10 hours. At the same time, the rhythm of a person's habitual life does not change.

Capsule for endoscopic examination of the stomach

Removal of the capsule occurs naturally during bowel movements. Significant disadvantages of the technique include: the inability to conduct a biopsy, the extremely high cost of the examination. All methods for diagnosing the gastrointestinal tract provide for preliminary preparation of the body. First of all, it concerns the correction of nutrition.

The diet should be lightened a few days before the examination. Carrying out hardware procedures is possible only on an empty stomach. The stomach can be checked using any method that is convenient and not contraindicated for the patient. However, the palm in terms of information content, and hence the maximum accuracy of diagnosis, remains with FGDS.

Hardware examination of the gastrointestinal tract is represented by several types, among which ultrasound (ultrasound) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are most often used. Examination methods allow you to visually view the organs of the digestive system and help confirm or refute a suspected diagnosis.

What symptoms require a hardware examination of the gastrointestinal tract?

abdominal pain of various localization and character;
sensation of pulsation in the abdomen;
bitter taste in the mouth;
belching;
discomfort or feeling of heaviness under the right rib;
change in the color of the tongue (yellow, white or brown coating);
nausea, vomiting;
violation of the stool (constipation, diarrhea, impurities in the feces);
discoloration of the skin (yellowing, the appearance of vascular "asterisks" on the skin);
the presence of a volumetric formation in the abdomen;
frequent regurgitation or vomiting with a fountain in children (especially infants);
during or after infectious diseases (viral hepatitis, malaria, infectious mononucleosis);
change in the color of urine (darkening) or stool (discoloration);
aversion to food, incomprehensibility of any products (cereal, dairy);
after an abdominal injury.

Ultrasound examination of the gastrointestinal tract. What is it for?

The advantages of ultrasound diagnostics are the ability to examine organs in several projections, as well as the study of peristalsis (muscle contraction) and the work of sphincters (muscle rings at the outlet of the esophagus, stomach or intestines). Sonography (ultrasound) allows you to evaluate the structure of the entire wall of organs, under the control of ultrasound it is easier to conduct a biopsy (collection of a part of the cells) to study for the presence of a neoplasm.

In addition, this type of examination does not penetrate the patient's body, that is, it is non-invasive. Ultrasound is comfortable for the subject, does not cause discomfort during the procedure. Allows you to assess the nature of the blood supply to organs and the work of blood and lymphatic vessels. Ultrasound examination of the gastrointestinal tract reveals:

Diseases of the esophagus. Esophagitis (inflammation of the mucous membrane of the esophagus), gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Diseases of the stomach. Gastritis (inflammation of the gastric mucosa), changes in the size or curvature of the stomach, outgrowths of the mucous membrane (polyps), tumors, congenital malformations, narrowing of the sphincter at the outlet of the stomach (pylorospasm).
Intestinal diseases. Dyskinesia (decrease or increase in intestinal tone), enterocolitis (inflammation of the mucous membrane of the small or large intestine), tumors, polyps, narrowing of the intestinal lumen, stenosis (narrowing), congenital anomalies (dolichosigma, etc.).
Diseases of the liver and biliary tract. Accumulation of pathological substances in the liver (calcifications), inflammation of the liver cells (hepatitis), cysts (cavities in the thickness of the organ), tumors or metastases in the liver, increased pressure in the portal vein basin, anomalies in the development of the gallbladder, biliary dyskinesia, the presence of calculi (stones ) in the lumen of the gallbladder.
Diseases of the pancreas. Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreatic tissue), violation of the outflow of pancreatic juice, blockage of the lumen of the pancreatic ducts.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). What are the advantages of the method?

MRI is a type of study that allows you to visualize the structure of an organ, its position in the body, blood supply, communication with neighboring organs and tissues. Visualization takes place in 3D format. This type of examination allows you to make a diagnosis at the earliest stages, even when there are no clinical manifestations (symptoms) yet. This helps to prevent a lot of complications and start treatment in a timely manner.

What can be determined during an MRI?

congenital anomalies and malformations of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract;
damage to the abdominal organs after injury;
foreign bodies in the lumen of the esophagus, stomach or intestines;
spasms of blood vessels in the liver or pancreas, threatening heart attacks, ischemia;
inflammatory processes in the organs of the digestive system;
infiltrates, abscesses (accumulation of pus);
adhesions, especially after surgery;
tumor formations in any of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract;
fatty degeneration of the liver or cirrhosis;
cavity formations (cysts, hematomas);
the presence of stones in the gallbladder or bile ducts.

There are a number of contraindications to this type of research. This is the presence in the patient of metal prostheses or devices (pacemakers, ectopic spirals, dentures). It is also not recommended to conduct an MRI in early pregnancy, patients with claustrophobia. In childhood, this type of diagnosis is limited, since complete immobility of the patient is required. In extreme cases, if necessary, the examination of the child is injected into anesthesia.

What are the methods of examination of the gastrointestinal tract, how is the diagnosis carried out? Diagnosis of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: examination (research) of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract Laboratory studies of the gastrointestinal tract.

Contraindications

Preparation for examination of the gastrointestinal tract

Is there an alternative to gastroscopy?

Physical research

Laboratory tests

Instrumental techniques

Assessment of gastric acid secretion

Endoscopic techniques

Radiation techniques

Histological methods

Possibilities of modern gastroenterology

Pathology detected: is it necessary to double-check?

Stages of a complete examination of the digestive organs and their cost

Time to complete the full study

How to check the gastrointestinal tract quickly, cheaply and informatively?

conclusions

Physical research

Laboratory tests

Instrumental techniques

Assessment of gastric acid secretion

Endoscopic techniques

Radiation techniques

Possibilities of modern gastroenterology

The main methods of diagnosing

Physical research

Palpation

Percussion

Instrumental research methods

Fibroesophagogastroduodenoscopy

Colonoscopy

Sigmoidoscopy

Video capsule endoscopy

X-ray examinations

Fluoroscopy

CRT or computed tomography

Ultrasound procedure

Magnetic resonance imaging

Methods for detecting bacteria Helicobacter pylori

Other Methods

Possible consequences

Diagnosis of diseases in Israel

Useful articles

Featured News

Add a comment, tell us what you think about it

After 30 years, the aging process is already starting in the body - the metabolism slows down, the body does not easily tolerate strict diets or, conversely, overeating.

Examinations of the gastrointestinal tract

Making an appointment with a gastroenterologist

Easy Diagnosis

Physical examination

Microscopic laboratory diagnostics

Application of hardware techniques

X-ray with contrast

CT scan

MR imaging

EGG and EGEG

ultrasound

Addition to hardware diagnostics

Alternative Endoscopy

Ultrasound examination of the gastrointestinal tract. What is it for?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). What are the advantages of the method?

What can be determined during an MRI?