Methods and methods of examination of the gastrointestinal tract. What are the methods of examination of the gastrointestinal tract, how is the diagnosis carried out? How to examine the gastrointestinal tract

It's no secret that a person's well-being largely depends on the state gastrointestinal tract. If digestion is upset, all body systems suffer. Therefore, it is not surprising that people who have a history of gastrointestinal pathology or are at risk often wonder how to check the stomach quickly and painlessly. modern medicine can offer a variety of diagnostic methods to reliably determine the cause of the ailment.

With discomfort in the stomach, timely and competent diagnosis is necessary.

Research methods

If the patient has complaints about a violation of the gastrointestinal tract, then he needs to undergo a complete medical examination. There are several methods of medical diagnosis:

1. physical method. Based on a visual examination of the patient and the collection of anamnesis.
2. Laboratory research. They include the delivery of tests prescribed to confirm a preliminary diagnosis.
3. hardware methods. They provide an opportunity to examine the gastrointestinal tract and identify the presence of pathologies.

Choose the best diagnostic option or prescribe comprehensive inspection only a doctor can. The choice will depend on the nature of the patient's complaints, the history taken and the preliminary diagnosis. We will talk about hardware options for research.

Gastroscopy and probing

Gastroscopy refers to the methods of endoscopic examination. Provides comprehensive information about the inner surface of the duodenum and stomach. manipulation is based on oral administration into the cavity of the probe organ with a videoscope and a light bulb at the end.

Gastroscopy - an effective, but unpleasant method of research

The study is unpleasant, but the most informative of all existing today diagnostic measures. During the examination, the doctor may remove single small polyps or take a tissue sample for a biopsy. The procedure is prescribed for chronic forms of gastritis and ulcerative pathology to confirm the diagnosis and select a treatment regimen.

In the same way as the FGS, a probe study is carried out. With the help of manipulation, the specialist receives information about gastric secretion, but does not see the mucous membrane.

The oral introduction of the probe is associated with extremely unpleasant sensations for the patient, so many are terrified of the procedure. How can you check the stomach without swallowing the intestine? Are there other research options?

Alternative diagnostic methods

Any medical examination begins with the collection of anamnesis during a personal conversation with the patient. Then the doctor proceeds to a visual examination of the patient. Carrying out palpation, the specialist finds out the localization of pain, the tension of the walls of the organ and the presence of dense structures.

The next stage of the examination will be the study of the stomach by the hardware method. Modern medicine can offer several diagnostic options that can, to one degree or another, replace FGS:

• capsule gastroscopy;
• desmoid test according to Saly;
• radiography;
• ultrasound procedure;
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).

Advice. Before you go for a stomach check, you need to get a specialist consultation. For example, if a patient has a possible gastritis at the initial examination, ultrasound in this case will be useless.

Below we will analyze in more detail each diagnostic method.

Capsular gastroscopy

This research method is based on replacing the probe with a special capsule equipped with a video camera. The device allows you to conduct a thorough examination of the gastric mucosa and identify the disease in the early stages of development.

Capsular gastroscopy does not cause discomfort and discomfort

To make a diagnosis, the patient must swallow the capsule. In order for the inspection to be successful, you should prepare for it:

1. The patient must follow a diet for 2 days before the procedure. From the diet it is recommended to exclude fatty, heavy foods, alcohol and dishes that cause flatulence. Food should be well chopped and steamed or boiled.
2. The study is carried out in the morning, on an empty stomach. The capsule is allowed to drink ½ cup of a simple liquid.

The process does not take much time and does not cause any discomfort to the person. During the examination, the patient can return to normal life, limiting physical activity. After 7-8 hours, the patient visits the doctor's office again, where the doctor transfers the indicators recorded by the capsule to the computer and makes a diagnosis.

After a certain time, the device leaves the body naturally. The advantages of such a procedure are obvious, but the method has not been found. wide application due to the rather high price of the device. In addition, such an examination does not allow you to take a biopsy, remove polyps or stop bleeding.

How the stomach is examined by the capsule method, you can watch the video:

Desmoid test

Often, gastroenterologists use a desmoid test to determine the degree of activity of gastric juice. During the study, the patient swallows a bag filled with methylene blue powder and tied with catgut thread.

Using methylene blue to check the acidity of gastric juice

After the thread dissolves, the dye is gradually absorbed into the blood and is excreted from the body no later than 18–20 hours later. The study is based on an assessment of the intensity of urine staining. If the first portion of urine acquires a bright blue-green color, then the acidity of the stomach is increased.

Radiation research methods

Of the radiation methods, the most widely used x-ray. Inspection equipment is available in almost every medical institution Therefore, the study is available to all segments of the population.

MRI and ultrasound are more modern research methods and pose less of a threat to the health of patients.

You can learn about the difference between these procedures from the video:

x-ray

With the help of radiography, a stomach ulcer is detected, its configuration is checked and its dimensions are estimated. R-graphy is carried out using a contrast agent - barium suspension. It is prescribed when the patient complains of rapid weight loss, the appearance of blood in feces, frequent and exhausting diarrhea, constant pain in the gastrointestinal tract.

X-ray of the gastrointestinal tract is informative and does not take much time, but has contraindications

The procedure is completely painless and not very complicated, but requires compliance with some rules:

1. Within 2-3 days before the examination, alcohol, thick, fatty and solid foods should be excluded from the diet.
2. On the eve of the test, it is necessary to clean the intestines with an enema or special means with a laxative effect.
3. Before the procedure, the patient is forbidden to eat and drink colored drinks.

X-ray of the stomach lasts 30-40 minutes. All this time, the doctor asks the patient to take certain postures and takes six pictures of the gastrointestinal tract in different projections.

The procedure has its advantages and disadvantages. The advantages include the possibility of obtaining information that is not available when using a fibrogastroscope. For example, with the help of FGS, it is impossible to detect a narrowing of the intestinal lumen or stenosis of the pylorus of the stomach.

Attention. X-rays are contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy and internal bleeding. In addition, X-rays are undesirable for allergies to iodine preparations.

Ultrasound procedure

Today, ultrasound is performed for suspected bleeding and the presence of cancerous growths in the organ cavity. It's quite popular but not very informative method diagnostics.

Ultrasound is an uninformative method for checking the stomach

The procedure helps to identify only the main violations in the digestive tract. For a more accurate diagnosis, the patient will have to use other diagnostic methods. Therefore, ultrasound is most often prescribed not to detect an ailment, but to confirm an existing diagnosis.

Advice. Ultrasound is completely safe, so it can be recommended for women at any stage of pregnancy.

Magnetic resonance imaging

Checking the stomach with MRI is completely safe and does not require swallowing a tube or injecting a barium solution. At the same time, the procedure is quite informative and allows you to assess the structure of the organ, the thickness and condition of its walls, the presence of neoplasms.

MRI is a modern method for diagnosing stomach diseases

During the examination, a three-dimensional image of the stomach is displayed on the monitor, allowing you to see polyps and other seals. In order for the picture to turn out to be of better quality, it is necessary to properly prepare for the procedure:

• For several days before an MRI, it is recommended to follow a diet, taking only boiled, liquid and crushed food that does not cause flatulence.
• Before the event, it is necessary to clean the intestines with Esmarch's mug or laxatives.
• The last meal should take place no later than 19-20 hours on the eve of the examination.

Computed tomography is most often prescribed to patients who already have a diagnosis and undergone specific treatment, as well as to people who have crossed the 50-year milestone. For effective visualization of cavities, a contrast agent or air is used. At the request of the patient, it is possible to carry out the procedure under a small anesthesia.

They are now found in almost every second adult. At the same time, periodic nausea, intestinal upset, heaviness in the abdomen, or indigestion are disturbing. But not every person goes to the doctor about this. This attitude can lead to serious consequences, because any disease is easier to cure on initial stage. Therefore, if abdominal discomfort periodically appears, it is necessary to check the stomach and intestines. Examination will help to detect pathologies in time and prevent complications.

When to See a Doctor

Only a doctor can determine if the digestive system is functioning properly. Therefore, in case of violation of the functioning of the digestive tract, it is necessary to contact a gastroenterologist. It is especially important to examine children in time, since their pathologies can progress rapidly, which seriously affects the state of the body.

• increased gas formation, bloating;
• nausea, occasional vomiting;
• constipation or diarrhea;
• the appearance of pain in the abdomen or in the side;
• feeling of heaviness after eating;
• frequent belching or heartburn;
• the presence of impurities of mucus, blood or undigested food in the feces;
• decreased appetite.

It is also recommended to periodically examine the gastrointestinal tract for people with chronic pathologies digestive organs. It can be gastritis, peptic ulcer, pancreatitis, reflux, colitis, duodenitis, biliary dyskinesia. Older people need regular checks of the condition of the intestine in order to detect the presence of a tumor in time.

Diagnostic procedures

Even experienced doctor not always by external symptoms can determine the cause of the ailment. Moreover, not every person can describe what he feels. Therefore, the diagnosis of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract has its own sequence and is not complete without instrumental and laboratory examination. Some pathologies at the initial stage do not show specific symptoms, but gradually progress. Therefore, examination of the gastrointestinal tract is very important for the timely detection of diseases and the appointment proper treatment. It is recommended to periodically pass it even healthy people.

Before making a preliminary diagnosis and choosing methods of examination, the doctor conducts a conversation with the patient. It is necessary to tell in detail about your feelings, what provokes them, when they arise. At the same time, the doctor is interested not only in the complaints of the patient. The specialist will definitely ask about habits, diet, the presence of chronic diseases. It is also very important what the parents and close relatives are ill with. After that, the patient is examined. The doctor does this with the help of physical methods.

These include palpation, percussion and auscultation. At first glance, it may seem that such an external examination is useless for determining the condition internal organs. But for an experienced specialist, even such an examination is informative. First, an examination of the oral cavity is carried out, in which the process of digestion begins. The condition of the mucosa, teeth, the color of the tongue is important.

The examination begins with a conversation and a general examination of the patient.

Then the doctor feels the patient's abdomen, determining if the organs are enlarged. digestive system, whether there are hardenings, scars, enlarged veins. Palpation also allows you to determine the shape of the organs, their pain and location. Auscultation or listening allows you to hear what sounds the intestines make during work. Percussion is tapping, which allows you to clarify the shape, location and condition of the internal organs.

After that, the doctor determines what other methods of examination of the gastrointestinal tract the patient needs. There are quite a few of them, but usually 2-3 methods are chosen. It can be:

• PH-metry;
• fibrogastroduodenoscopy;
• sounding;
• x-ray examination;
• colonoscopy;
• scintigraphy;
• CT or MRI;
• blood, urine and stool tests.

Instrumental examination methods allow assessing the condition of the mucosa of the digestive tract, secretion of gastric juice, acidity level, and motor function. With their help, you can identify the presence of tumors, cysts, erosions or ulcers. Usually, to diagnose diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, the doctor prescribes FGDS and blood tests. Sometimes you still need to check the condition of the liver, bile ducts and pancreas. Such a complete examination of the digestive system is necessary when it is difficult to make a diagnosis.

If a person doubts whether his digestive organs are working normally and whether he should go to the doctor, you can check the stomach and intestines on your own. To do this, squeeze half a glass of juice from raw beets and insist it for a couple of hours. Then drink and observe bowel movements. If it happens quickly and the feces are beet-colored, then the stomach and intestines are working normally. If urine stains, and there is no stool for a long time, you should consult a doctor.

Gastroscopy

To examine the condition of the gastric mucosa and duodenum most often used endoscopic examination or fibrogastroduodenoscopy. This is the most accurate method for detecting gastrointestinal diseases at an early stage. Gastroscopy is probing. The patient swallows a special flexible tube with a camera at the end. With its help, the doctor can examine in detail the condition of the mucous membrane of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. Probing allows you to diagnose peptic ulcer, inflammation of the mucous membrane in time, take gastric juice for analysis to determine its acidity.

Endoscopic examination can cause discomfort to the patient, although modern devices for this make the procedure as comfortable as possible. But many patients refuse it because of fear of pain or vomiting. In this case, as well as for examining the small intestine, capsule sounding can be prescribed. This is a modern minimally invasive diagnostic method. The patient is offered to swallow a special capsule with a video camera. As it moves through the digestive tract, it will transmit the image to the monitor. Then the capsule comes out naturally.

Gastroscopy is the most informative method for examining the upper digestive tract.

x-ray

X-ray diagnostics is the most accessible and cheapest method of examination. It allows you to assess the thickness of the walls of organs, their shape and size, to see the presence of ulcers, erosions and neoplasms.

One of the varieties of X-ray examination of the digestive tract is irrigoscopy. This is the name of the examination with the use of contrast agents. When examining the stomach, the patient is given a capsule of barium to drink, and for a picture of the intestine, this substance is injected through anus. Barium is opaque to x-rays, which allows for a more accurate image.

ultrasound

Modern devices for ultrasound diagnostics allow you to clearly see the size, location and shape of internal organs, the presence of foreign bodies and tumors. Usually, it is with ultrasound that diagnostics begins when a patient contacts a doctor with complaints of discomfort in the abdomen. This method can be used for preventive purposes, for the timely detection of tumors, decreased intestinal motility, narrowing of the intestinal lumen, disruption of the sphincters.

An ultrasound examination of the gastrointestinal tract is also used to confirm the diagnosis and to control the correctness of treatment. This is necessary for gastritis, gastroduodenitis, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, the presence of polyps or cysts, cholelithiasis, pancreatitis. Informative ultrasound for examination of the intestines. Some preparation is required before the procedure. And before the scan itself, fluid is injected into the intestine. So you can identify the presence of polyps, tumors, narrowing of the intestinal lumen.

Tomography

If there are difficulties in the diagnosis, computed tomography may be prescribed. It allows you to get information about the shape and size of the digestive organs, the condition of the bones and muscles, the thickness of the abdominal wall, the presence of foreign bodies. CT is more informative than X-ray, but the radiation exposure from such an examination is less.

More accurate information about the state of the digestive tract can be obtained using MRI. So you can examine the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, gallbladder and ducts. An MRI image can be used to assess the condition blood vessels And lymph nodes, the presence of stones, cysts, polyps or tumors, the structure of organ tissues.

Intestinal examination

Due to the peculiarities of the structure and location of this organ, it is difficult to examine it. The condition of the duodenum can be determined by endoscopy through the esophagus. But the probe does not penetrate further. The rectum is visible during colonoscopy. And here small intestine more difficult to investigate. To identify its pathology, it is necessary comprehensive examination using several methods.

The most commonly used colonoscopy is the examination of the rectum with a probe. It is inserted through the anus. With the help of a special camera at its end, you can examine the condition of the intestinal walls, the presence of tumors or stagnation of feces. During the procedure, you can take a sample of the mucosa for analysis or even remove small polyps. A retromanoscopy also allows you to assess the condition of the large intestine. At the same time, a special probe advances over a distance of more than 30 cm. It is recommended that every person over 50 years of age must undergo such an examination. This allows you to detect cancer at an early stage.

Analyzes

Any research methods require some preparation, without which the result may be distorted. It is usually recommended to prepare for the diagnosis 3-5 days before the procedure. There are specific recommendations for each method, the doctor should warn the patient about them. But there is also general recommendations, which are associated with the specifics of the location and functioning of the digestive organs.

• Be sure to follow a diet a few days before the examination. To prevent gas formation, it is recommended to give up legumes, black bread, large amounts of fiber, and heavy foods. Approximately 10-12 hours before the procedure, you can’t eat at all, sometimes it’s even forbidden to drink water.
• It is advisable to exclude alcohol and do not smoke, especially 12 hours before the examination.
• Sometimes it is recommended to take certain medicines, which will help cleanse the digestive tract, improve digestion. These are enterosorbents, enzymes, drugs against nausea and flatulence.
• When examining the intestines, you need to take laxatives or an enema for several days to clear it.
• Before probing, you can take an anesthetic or antispasmodic. Some are also advised to take a sedative.

Contraindications

To check the gastrointestinal intestinal tract first you need to visit a doctor. It will help you decide which methods are best to use. After all, not all of them are equally informative, in addition, some have contraindications.

Do not conduct an instrumental examination if the patient has an infection, fever, acute inflammation. It is also contraindicated in the presence of heart or lung diseases, bleeding disorders, allergies to certain drugs.

Regular examination of the gastrointestinal tract will help to identify various pathologies at the initial stage. Thanks to this, it will be easier to cure them without complications.

How to check the stomach without gastroscopy? Sometimes the EGD procedure is contraindicated for many reasons, and it is necessary to make a diagnosis. It is impossible to conduct an examination with a probe if the patient has a panic fear of the apparatus. Very young children and elderly patients are probing under general anesthesia, but this method is not always justified. What can replace the endoscope?

Methods for diagnosing the stomach

There are several methods of medical diagnosis of the condition of the gastric mucosa:

1. physical - held in the doctor's office;
2. laboratory - examine the patient's tests;
3. hardware - with the help of medical devices.

Physical methods are a common examination by a doctor. The doctor listens in detail to the complaints of a person, conducts an initial examination - the oral cavity, tongue, palpates the lymph nodes and the abdomen.

Laboratory studies are carried out to identify the causes of the pathology of the stomach - what concomitant diseases could provoke the disease? For diagnosis, they take blood, feces and urine.

Hardware diagnostics include ultrasound, fluoroscopy. In modern medicine, diagnostics is used - a gastropanel. This is a paid alternative to gastroscopy - a laboratory blood test.

An absolute contraindication to gastroscopy of the stomach is the near-death state of the patient. Diagnosis is possible even with a heart attack and in the presence of gastric bleeding. However, there are contraindications to the procedure:

• risk of aortic rupture;
• heart ailments - they are first treated;
• hemophilia - there is a risk of tissue injury;
• high blood pressure;
• diseases of the neck area;
• anatomical deviations in the structure of the patient's body.

If gastroscopy is not possible, the determination of gastric diseases is established by alternative methods.

Alternative to sounding

How can you check for stomach disease without gastroscopy? Modern medicine offers many ways to replace gastroscopy:

• capsule instead of a probe;
• desmoid test;
• beam research methods;
• ultrasonic methods;
• Magnetic resonance imaging.

Capsule diagnostics

This method of examining the stomach involves replacing the probe with a capsule, inside of which a video camera is located. The capsule stays in the cavity for 8 hours and registers all the processes taking place in the stomach. The examined patient does not experience any discomfort, as with FGDS.

After the set time, the patient returns to the clinic, and the doctor records the readings of the video camera sensor on the computer monitor. Subsequently, the capsule itself leaves the stomach, and the person restores the normal rhythm of life.

The advantages of this method are obvious: it does not cause discomfort, does not cause fear, and gives an extensive diagnostic picture of the state of the stomach cavity. Gastroscopy is inferior to this method in many respects. For example, if a patient suffers from gastritis, the capsule method does not injure the mucous membrane, as with probing. The disadvantage of this procedure is the price for a capsule with sensors.

Desmoid test

This study of the stomach without gastroscopy involves swallowing a bag with a special composition. This method is not expensive, however, it is only suitable for examining the quality of gastric juice. The activity of the juice is determined by the amount of the sac filler substance excreted from the body.

This method can be used to diagnose gastritis. If a portion of urine turns green-blue, then the stomach is producing increased amount of hydrochloric acid.

Radiation diagnostics

An x-ray check allows you to determine the pathology of the structure of the organ and the processes occurring inside. X-ray reveals:

• gastritis;
• tumors;
• polyps;
• ulcers.

Diagnostics also reveals deviations in the structure of the organ itself, its volume and size.

How is a stomach x-ray done? Before the diagnosis, the patient drinks a special thick liquid, the doctor takes pictures with rays and diagnoses using x-rays. Before this, a panoramic study is carried out to identify:

• intestinal obstruction;
• perforation of the gastrointestinal tract.

X-ray is a contraindication profuse bleeding and early pregnancy.

Ultrasound diagnostics

In addition to X-rays, MRI and ultrasound diagnostics are also used. These are modern methods of radiation research using ultrasound. Gastroscopy is a painful procedure, fluoroscopy is dangerous with radiation. Ultrasounds, like magnetic waves with radio waves, are safe and effective.

With the help of ultrasound, the presence of internal tumors and bleeding is examined. The method is completely safe and can be used to examine any patient. In many cases, ultrasound helps to clarify the diagnosis.

Magnetic resonance imaging

MRI is a modern method of diagnostics, with which you can determine the exact diagnosis. The disadvantage of MRI is the high price of the equipment, so not every clinic has the device. The accuracy of the study excludes any error - data processing is carried out by a computer program.

Before the procedure, a special substance is injected into the patient's blood, so MRI is contraindicated for pregnant women. Also, magnetic resonance imaging cannot be performed in the presence of implants, prostheses and other metal elements in the body.

Outcome

How to determine gastritis, tumor or polyp in the stomach without FGS? It can be done different methods modern diagnostics. However, only gastroscopy allows you to examine pieces of mucosal tissue - this is its undeniable advantage over other methods. Therefore, probing remains one of the most popular and popular methods for diagnosing gastrointestinal problems.

In gastroenterological practice, there are a considerable number of various 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.

in number absolute contraindications 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 peptic ulcer stomach.

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 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);
• cancel appointment medicines , 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 abandon serious physical activity, drinking alcohol 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 medicines, but children sometimes do general anesthesia(during gastroscopy and other endoscopic studies). 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 others diagnostic methods do not give a complete picture of the disease, it is better to agree to a 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 organs located on the sides 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.

Lab tests

In the detection of many diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, the most important role is played by laboratory diagnostics. 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 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 elevated level 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, it is mandatory to general analysis feces, which will allow the specialist to evaluate the overall functioning of the digestive system, to 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.

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.

Other common laboratory research, widely used in gastroenterology, is a test for the detection of occult bleeding. 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 study in order to obtain the most common information is at the discretion of the attending physician, depending on the available information. 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 the majority inflammatory diseases digestive system are characterized by a change in the acidity of the stomach. That is why during diagnostic examination it may be indicated to assess the secretion of gastric acid necessary for adequate digestion of food, using a special technique called pH-metry. 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 has to swallow a small capsule equipped with a mini video camera, which will transfer images to a computer as it goes, 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 in the front abdominal wall a puncture is performed, through which carbon dioxide is first pumped, and then endoscopic equipment is inserted. 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 in case of suspicion of 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 features pathological process with gastritis, peptic ulcer, gastric and intestinal neoplasms, 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 medical equipment latest generation with which you can get the most accurate results of research 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 complex diagnostics 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 necessary additional research period may be extended.

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 have a significantly increased risk of developing serious illnesses, including oncological processes, and with early diagnosis the chances of a full recovery are greatly increased.

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

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