Is there a difference between an upper endoscopy and an endoscopy? Yes! Although both of these medical procedures might sound similar considering their name, there is a significant amount of difference between these two medical terms.
By knowing the difference between an endoscopy and upper endoscopy, you can better determine what screening methods should be applied to your symptoms.
Endoscopy Vs Upper Endoscopy
Endoscopy concerns a range of medical procedures that are performed with the help of an endoscope, and it also includes upper endoscopy.
Notably, upper endoscopy, also known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is referred to as the endoscopic procedure uses to examine the upper gastrointestinal tract. The doctor inserts the endoscope through the mouth which is slowly pushed down to the small intestine. The upper endoscopy procedure helps to look for growth, ulcers, and various other gastrointestinal abnormalities regarding the upper portion of the gastrointestinal tract.
On the other hand, an endoscopy is a screening process that is done with a help of a flexible, thin tube with a light and camera attachment. There are various types of endoscopy procedures that are performed on other body parts as well.
Types of Endoscopy Procedure
Following are some of the types of endoscopy procedures that are done according to the part being examined, diagnosed, or treated.
- Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is one of the most common types of endoscopy procedures. Typically, this medical procedure is performed for individuals who are 50 years old or above as they are at a higher risk of having colon cancer. Importantly, patients who have to go through a colonoscopy procedure are needed to drink a drink known as colon prep to ensure they get accurate results.
- Arthroscopy
This type of endoscopy is entirely different than upper endoscopy as it is performed by creating a minor incision near a joint. For this procedure, an endoscope is passed through the joint to examine various kinds of joint disorders, for example, arthritis. Notably, arthroscopy is also performed to repair minor damages and joint tears.
- Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which is also known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a type of endoscopy that is performed with a thin tube. This thin tube is inserted in the mouth to examine the esophagus, duodenum, and stomach.
Notably, during an upper endoscopy, the doctor may decide to perform any other medical procedure, like esophageal dilation, for treating a narrowed esophagus.
- Proctoscopy
Proctoscopy is another type of upper endoscopy which is performed with the help of a rectoscope. Proctoscopy is known to be a little different from the usual types of endoscopies as it is performed with a different medical tool.
Unlike an endoscope which is a long and flexible tube, a rectoscope is a straight and hollow tube and t comes with a small light bulb. It is primarily used to examine minor rectal problems like hemorrhoids or even more serious issues like a rectal polyp. Although, rectal polyp can also be examined with the help of a colonoscopy.
