Digestive Health Diagnostics & Testing
Our digestive health specialists use several different tests to evaluate and diagnose the problems you are experiencing with your digestive system. Some of the most common tests your specialist may use are:
Colon & Rectal Tests
Colonoscopy – A colonoscopy is performed to examine your large intestine for disease, most commonly colorectal cancer. Everyone age 50 and older should be screened for colorectal cancer. When performing a colonoscopy, the doctor uses a long, thin, flexible tube with a tiny video camera and a light on the end to view your entire colon and rectum and check for polyps, inflammatory changes or cancer. If polyps are found, they often can be removed during this procedure.
CT (Computed Tomography) Colonography - A test that uses CT scans to check the colon and rectum. Also referred to as a virtual colonoscopy.
Defecography or Evacuation Proctography – uses an X-ray to show how the rectum works during a bowel movement.
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) – A laboratory test that uses a stool sample to test for signs of blood in the stool. Blood in the fecal matter can be a sign of colorectal cancer or other colon and rectal issues such as polyps, ulcers or hemorrhoids.
FIT-DNA Test – Similar to a FIT test, a FIT-DNA checks for the presence of blood in the sample but the test also checks for altered DNA.
Sigmoidoscopy - A short, flexible tube is used by the doctor to examine portions of the rectum and lower third of the colon.
SITZMARKS® Colon Motility Test – determines how well the colon is working. A capsule containing tiny rings is swallowed. Several days later, the doctor will take an X-ray of the belly to see where the rings are and how many are left .
Gastroenterology Tests
Colonoscopy – A colonoscopy is performed to examine your large intestine for disease, most commonly colorectal cancer. Everyone age 50 and older should be screened for colorectal cancer. When performing a colonoscopy, the gastroenterologist uses a long, thin, flexible tube with a tiny video camera and a light on the end to view your entire colon and rectum and check for polyps, inflammatory changes or cancer. If polyps are found, they often can be removed during this procedure.
CT (Computed Tomography) Colonography - A test that uses CT scans to check the colon and rectum. Also referred to as a virtual colonoscopy.
Endoscopic Ultrasound – Endoscopic ultrasound is an imaging test that is used to see organs in and near your digestive tract. During this test, the doctor will insert a thin, flexible tube into your mouth or through your rectum. Once inside your digestive tract, sound waves are sent out the end of the tube. A computer receives these waves and a picture of what is inside is created.
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) – A laboratory test that uses a stool sample to test for signs of blood in the stool. Blood in the fecal matter can be a sign of colorectal cancer or other colon and rectal issues such as polyps, ulcers or hemorrhoids.
FIT-DNA Test – Similar to a FIT test, a FIT-DNA checks for the presence of blood in the sample but the test also checks for altered DNA.
Sigmoidoscopy - A short, flexible tube is used by the doctor to examine portions of the rectum and lower third of the colon.
Upper Endoscopy – An endoscope is a long, thin, flexible tube with a tiny video camera and light on the end. By adjusting the controls on the endoscope, the gastroenterologist can safely guide the instrument to carefully examine the inside lining of your upper digestive system. In some cases, digestive conditions can be treated through the endoscope.
Video Capsule Endoscopy - A procedure that allows a doctor to examine parts of the digestive tract using a small pill sized video camera that is swallowed. The "pill" takes photos that are sent electronically as it passes through the digestive system.
