How to check the stomach and intestines: features of the most informative research methods. Modern methods of examination of the stomach Complete examination of the gastrointestinal tract in one day

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, 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.

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 revealed, 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 results of the tests. 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 a service such 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

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 examination results is proper preparation, which begins a few days before the visit to the clinic.
3. 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.
4. 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.

It's no secret that a person's well-being largely depends on the state of the 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 many diagnostic methods that can 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.

Only a doctor can choose the best diagnostic option or prescribe a comprehensive examination. 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 the oral introduction of a probe with a videoscope and a light bulb at the end into the organ cavity.

Gastroscopy - an effective, but unpleasant method of research

The study is unpleasant, but the most informative of all diagnostic measures that exist today. 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 afraid 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 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. Examination equipment is available in almost every medical institution, so 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 for the patient's complaints of rapid weight loss, the appearance of blood in the 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. This is a fairly popular, but not very informative diagnostic method.

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.

Modern medicine offers a wide range of diagnostic procedures that allow the most complete examination of the stomach. All methods are conditionally divided into the following types: physical, clinical, instrumental diagnosis. Each type of study and method allows you to get a certain picture and, with a general analysis and interpretation of the results, make a diagnosis.

Diagnostic methods

Methods for examining the stomach are prescribed and carried out by a gastroenterologist based on the patient's complaints of indigestion, abdominal pain, heaviness, bursting, heartburn, belching, stool disorders.

The most common and effective traditional methods of examining the stomach are esophagogastroscopy (EGD), fluoroscopy with contrast. Modernized, modern procedures that allow for a more accurate examination of the stomach include CT and MRI. Today, medicine offers alternative options for diagnosing gastrointestinal diseases, such as a video pill, electrogastrography and electrogastroenterography.

Depending on the type and power of the apparatus, it is possible to examine all the organs of the gastrointestinal tract (esophagus, stomach, duodenum 12), take biomaterial for histology and cytological analysis. Methods for examining the stomach can be used in combination in complex cases, and only some of them can be prescribed.

All manipulations performed by a gastroenterologist are combined into three large groups:

1. A physical examination, when the doctor analyzes complaints, examines the patient, palpates and listens to his stomach, determines how much the epigastric pain is.
2. Laboratory tests, which involve the study of biological fluids and tissues of the patient for hemoglobin, general and biochemical parameters.
3. Hardware techniques, when the patient is examined using certain devices, tools and instruments.

physical ways

The first way to make a diagnosis is by talking to the patient and doing a physical examination. It is carried out in several stages:

1. Conversation, history taking, analysis of the patient's complaints, especially the nature of the pain.
2. General examination: evaluates the appearance of the patient, changes in the color and structure of the skin. Paleness of the skin, exhaustion, cachexia indicate cancer, advanced pyloric stenosis, lack of hemoglobin. Grayish skin, anorexia, a doomed look signal a stomach ulcer, bleeding, and a decrease in hemoglobin.
3. Examination of the oral cavity. Caries indicates an infection, the absence of teeth indicates impaired digestion. According to the state of the tongue, the disease is also diagnosed:
   • clean, wet - an ulcer in remission;
   • grayish plaque, bad smell - acute gastritis;
   • dry tongue, acute abdomen - peritonitis, perforation of deep erosions, acute pancreatitis, lack of hemoglobin due to bleeding;
   • atrophic, smooth surface - stomach cancer, chronic gastritis with low acid content in gastric juice;
   • ulceration - poisoning with acids, alkalis.
4. . In severely malnourished patients, the contours of the stomach are visualized, which can be used to determine pyloric stenosis, gross peristalsis, and tumors in the organ. When probing, it is determined how much the epigastrium hurts, an acute abdomen, irritation or tension of the peritoneum is detected.
5. Percussion. In a certain position of the body, for example, when you need to lie down and raise your arms up, conditions are created under which noises, bursts, high or low tympanitis are heard from the stomach.
6. Auscultation. Listening allows you to evaluate the peristaltic noises of the intestines and stomach.

Based on the physical examination, the doctor makes a preliminary diagnosis and can determine the priority methods in order to conduct a more detailed examination of the stomach and duodenum.

Clinical and biochemical types

The laboratory examination technique involves taking blood samples (they are taken from a finger and a vein), urine, feces, followed by their examination for specific parameters, in particular, hemoglobin.

Blood is analyzed in two ways:

• standard, when it is required to assess the degree of inflammation, anemia, determine the level of total hemoglobin and blood particles (erythrocytes, platelets, lymphocytes);
• biochemical, when low or high levels of bilirubin, amylase, hemoglobin, ALT, AST are assessed, general characteristics of the state of the blood serum. You should also take samples of biomaterials for cytology, histology and other specific tests.

Urinalysis allows you to judge the general condition of the body. For example, according to an increased indicator of diastase, pancreatitis is suspected, if urobilin rises - jaundice.

Fecal analysis allows you to determine the presence of helminthic invasion, giardiasis, to detect hidden blood. The quality of digestion is also evaluated. If you hand over the material for sowing, you can determine the state of the colonic microflora.

Ultrasound in the study of the stomach

The first instrumental probeless method of examining the stomach, when the stomach hurts, is ultrasound. However, ultrasound makes it possible to assess the state of only the terminal, exit zones of the organ due to the peculiarities of its location and filling. Therefore, ultrasound allows you to examine part of the stomach, the duodenal bulb, the pyloric canal and cave, areas of lesser and greater curvature, the sphincter in the pyloric region. Advantages:

• ease of tracking peristalsis;
• duplex scanning;
• polypositionality;
• high speed of the procedure.

Fluoroscopy

The method is carried out using a contrast agent in the form of a suspension of barium sulfate. Before manipulation, the patient drinks a solution that slowly fills the gastrointestinal tract. As the sulfate passes, x-rays of different departments are taken. Decryption is carried out according to the following indicators:

• the shape of the filled stomach;
• organ contours;
• uniformity of contrast distribution;
• structure, motor activity of the digestive tract.

According to the combination of signs, peptic ulcer, tumor, gastritis, and evacuation dysfunction are diagnosed.

Radiation fluoroscopy allows you to obtain the most accurate data on the state of the laryngeal part, narrowing of the esophagus, diaphragm, codial parts and curvature of the stomach. Flaws:

• limited information content;
• constipation, difficulty in passing hard, discolored stools.

Gastropanel

Methods are among the fastest and most effective options for preliminary diagnosis of gastric pathologies. Gastropanel (cytology, histology) includes a set of safe tests that detect:

• dyspepsia;
• Helicobacter pylori infection;
• atrophic form of gastritis.

At the same time, the risks of the transition of stomach diseases into cancer, peptic ulcer in the curvature, into severe atrophic forms with anemia with low hemoglobin, osteoporosis, pathologies of the heart, blood vessels, and the central nervous system are assessed.

The essence of gastropanel diagnostics is the study of the patient's venous blood according to a special program. The result includes a decoding and comparison of indicators with the norms, a detailed description and recommendations for treatment, graphic diagrams of possible risks of developing a serious illness and complications.

Probing, endoscopy, biopsy

Presents methods for studying the secretory function of the stomach. This procedure allows you to get samples and evaluate the contents of the stomach according to a number of parameters: acidity, enzymatic activity, etc. For this, a special thin, flexible tube is used, which is inserted through the patient's mouth into all organs of the gastrointestinal tract. Depending on the goals of diagnosis, the contents of the stomach, duodenum 12 are selected from different departments.

During gastroscopy, colonoscopy or esophagogastroduadenoscopy of the stomach, a visual assessment of the state of the organ is carried out with an endoscope - a probe with an optical tube, at the end of which there is a video camera and a lighting device. With the help of the procedure, superficial changes in the mucosa are detected, which are not visualized by other methods. Goals of traditional gastroscopy or colonoscopy:

• differential diagnosis of neoplasms;
• recognition of early stages of malignancy;
• tracking how deep erosion heals;
• identification of sources of blood loss;
• biopsy histology;
• choice of treatment regimen.

During the manipulation, tissue samples are taken from the gastric walls for a biopsy with cytology, histology, which involves the study of tissues in case of suspected polyposis, organ cancer. The main advantage is the ability to determine the onset of a malignant process at an early stage.

Alternative Methods

Until now, to visualize the entire gastrointestinal tract, in particular the stomach, it was necessary to use unpleasant procedures with swallowing a gastroscope. But the main advantage of such a device is its versatility, which consists in the ability to conduct an internal examination, take a biopsy for cytology with histology, carry out treatment (stopping bleeding that causes a drop in hemoglobin) or minor operations, for example, to remove small polyps.

• capsule endoscopy;
• CT (virtual colonoscopy/gastroscopy);
• radiopaque examination;
• electrogastrography (EGG) and electrogastroenterography (EGEG).

"Video Pill"

Capsule endoscopy is a minimally invasive, probeless, real-time examination of the gastrointestinal tract. Advantages:

• more accurate data and breadth of assessment of the state of the mucosa and walls;
• the ability to detect diseases at an early stage;
• absolute absence of pain;
• choice of the optimal treatment regimen.

The essence of the procedure:

• the patient swallows an 11x24 mm capsule equipped with a video sensor and goes home;
• as it passes, the device captures several thousand frames.

You need to start manipulation on an empty stomach, after which you can eat regular food. The duration of the capsule is 6-8 hours. At this time, it is allowed to lead a normal life, with the exception of playing sports and performing sudden movements. At the end of the specified time, the patient returns to the hospital to transfer data from the device. The capsule itself leaves the body naturally after a few days. Flaws:

• the impossibility of approaching a suspicious area for a more detailed examination;
• inability to take a biopsy for histology.

MRI

A modern non-invasive procedure for examining the whole body, in particular, the stomach -. It is performed on a special tomograph equipped with a movable electromagnetic table, a camera, a computer with a powerful OS for visualizing the stomach and processing the data obtained. To do this, the patient lies down on the table, which drives into the tomograph. While the patient is lying motionless, guided by the doctor's instructions, pictures are taken and transferred to a PC. Advantages:

• minimal preparation for the procedure;
• no pain during the procedure;
• obtaining a clear 3D image with affected areas;
• no problems with the withdrawal of solid feces.

Flaws:

• high price;
• the need for the patient to have no metal implants, pacemakers.

Intestinal examination. Who among us has not experienced panic fear at the thought of such procedures? After all, until recently, the methods used to diagnose intestinal diseases were quite painful.

But progress does not stand still, and now there are new, painless examination methods that will not interfere with normal well-being, and some of them will not even change the rhythm of your life.

Why examine the intestines?

The intestines are subject to a large number of diseases. These are inflammatory processes, injuries, congenital anomalies, benign and malignant tumors. Therefore, timely diagnosis allows you to start treatment on time and prevent further development of the disease.

Typically, the main symptoms of bowel disease are:

• stool disorder - frequent stool or delay;
• pain in the abdomen or anus;
• the presence of mucus or blood in the stool;
• flatulence;
• vomiting, nausea;
• weakness, feeling unwell.

Such symptoms are the reason for going to the doctor and further examination.

What are the methods of examination of the intestine?

Methods for examining the intestines differ in their information content and complement each other. In some cases, the diagnosis can be established during the initial examination of the patient using digital examination and anoscopy.

If necessary, further examination is carried out by such methods as:

• irrigoscopy;
• colonoscopy;
• ultrasound examination (ultrasound);
• Magnetic resonance imaging;
• capsule research.

One of the most informative ways to examine the intestines is the x-ray method (irrigoscopy). In this case, the patient takes a contrast mixture and, according to the time of its receipt in the intestines, as well as the pattern of the intestinal mucosa, conclusions are drawn about the motor function of the colon and the presence of inflammatory processes. It also determines the presence of pathologies, the shape and size of the intestine.

Colonoscopy allows you to examine the entire surface of the intestine, while it is possible to eliminate benign tumors (polyps), remove foreign bodies, stop bleeding. With this procedure, it is possible to take tissue for a biopsy, for further research on the subject of malignant tumors.

Intestinal ultrasound is used to diagnose children, pregnant women and the elderly. The study is carried out only after special preparation.

Magnetic resonance imaging provides complete information about the state of the intestine, the presence of tumors, inflammation, ulcers, narrowing and perforations. The procedure is completely painless.

For capsule research, an enterocapsule equipped with a video camera is used. Moving through different parts of the digestive system, the capsule captures information about the work of these departments, the state of the mucous membrane and the presence of pathologies. Then this information is processed by a specialist and a diagnosis is made. In this case, the patient leads a normal life. The enterocapsule is excreted from the body naturally.

Disease is better prevented

To date, there are many methods for diagnosing intestinal diseases that allow you to identify the disease at an early stage or even prevent its occurrence. If desired, you can for a fee, wherein prices on bowel examination in Moscow are very affordable.

Or they are at risk, they often ask the question: how to check the stomach and intestines? There are a large number of diagnostic methods that are characterized by high efficiency and allow you to accurately determine the disease.

Doctors quite often prescribe a colonoscopy.

If a patient has pathological changes in the intestines or stomach, then he must undergo an instrumental examination without fail. Doctors in most cases recommend:

1. Magnetic resonance imaging;
2. PET scan;
3. Computed tomography;
4. Capsule endoscopy;

With the help of these methods, it is possible to examine the gastrointestinal tract, as well as to determine the presence of diseases. Some research methods require the use of anesthesia, as a person will not be able to endure the intervention. The choice of a particular research method directly depends on the characteristics of the development of the disease and the preliminary diagnosis.

Features of PET scanning and computed tomography

PET - scanning - as an effective diagnostics.

Computed tomography and PET scans are often used to examine the large and small intestines.

With the help of these research methods, visualization of the affected organs is carried out.

During the diagnosis, the doctor receives an image on a radiograph or computer monitor.

The equipment that is used for diagnostics visualizes the state of internal organs through the use of methods such as a magnetic field, ultraviolet waves, x-rays.

Thanks to the use of a computer, it is possible to obtain several multi-layered images of the stomach and intestines, which greatly simplifies the process of studying the state of these organs for the doctor.

With the help of this research method, an assessment is given not only to the internal, but also to the external contour. Before the scan, the patient is given a contrast agent. Intravenous administration of the drug can also be carried out during the period of computed tomography.

During the diagnostic period, images are taken in a special camera. That is why if the patient has claustrophobia, he is not recommended to conduct a study. Also, diagnosis is not carried out with excessive obesity of the patient. Virtual colonoscopy is one of the types of computed tomography.

During the period of using this method, it is possible to obtain images that have a three-dimensional image. This diagnosis is quite informative in the presence of growths on the walls of the intestine, the size of which is more than one centimeter.

PET diagnostics is the use of radioactive sugar, which is used to obtain images of the large and small intestines. It is injected into the patient intravenously before the study.

For diagnostics, positron emission equipment is used, which is equipped with a special table for patient positioning. The duration of the study is on average half an hour.

If the doctor previously diagnosed or early oncology in a patient, then this method is not used to confirm the diagnosis. But, with its help, the level of anomalies of the inflamed intestinal wall, which was previously revealed by the tomogram, is checked.

In case of intestinal cancer, using this research method, the presence of metastases in the lymphatic system and nearby organs is checked. Thanks to the possibility of simultaneous use of computed tomography and a PET scanner, the doctor can compare the images and establish the diagnosis as accurately as possible.

To get a more complete picture, the doctor very often prescribes a surrender.

What is capsule endoscopy, the video will tell:

Performing ultrasound and MRI

Ultrasound is one of the diagnostic methods.

In order to check the intestines and stomach for the development of oncological diseases, ultrasound is used.

It is used for fairly large tumors. If the patient has early or polyps in the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, then this method is not used for diagnosis.

In some cases, ultrasound is used to detect metastases of bowel cancer in other organs.

If the patient is previously diagnosed with rectal cancer, then endorectal ultrasound is used to confirm this diagnosis. For this purpose, a special device is used, which is inserted into the patient through the rectum.

Endorectal ultrasound makes it possible to determine the prevalence of pathological foci and the presence of pathological processes in the rectum and neighboring organs.
Magnetic resonance imaging can be used to diagnose diseases of the stomach and intestines.

When it is carried out on a computer screen, images are obtained that display sections of the patient's body. This research method uses radio waves and strong magnets. During the period of examination, the human body absorbs energy, which is displayed by the picture. Thanks to the presence of a special program in the tomograph, the template is converted into an image.

Before the study, a drug is administered to a person, which includes gadolinium. The distribution of the substance throughout the patient's body is carried out in different ways, depending on the location of the disease.

This makes it possible to distinguish between healthy and diseased tissues of the stomach and intestines. Compared to computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging transmits clearer images. If the patient has renal insufficiency, this diagnostic method is not used. Capsule endoscopy is most commonly used to determine.

This research method is based on the use of a capsule that has a built-in wireless camera of the smallest possible dimensions. Thanks to this device, it is possible to obtain photographs of the stomach and intestines. The video tablet makes it possible to examine hard-to-reach areas. Unlike endoscopy, this method examines the small intestine.

Ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging and capsule endoscopy are highly effective diagnostic methods that are characterized by a minimum number of contraindications.

Features of laparoscopy and endoscopy

A laparoscope is an instrument for performing laparoscopy.

If the diagnostic case is unclear, then laparoscopy is used.

With the help of this method of research, the depth of the lesion of the stomach is determined. This method can be used not only for diagnostics, but also for surgical interventions. With the help of laparoscopy, the determination of stomach cancer is carried out, as well as the degree of spread to neighboring organs.

During the study, a special instrument is used - a laparoscope. Initially, anesthesia is administered to the patient. After that, an incision is made, the dimensions of which reach from 0.5 to 1 centimeter.

Through it, a device is introduced, with the help of which carbon dioxide is pumped into the stomach. Due to this, the organ is enlarged, which allows you to get the most detailed picture. Next, the laparoscope is inserted into the resulting space.

Standard laparoscopy does not make it possible to determine the presence of metastases in. For this purpose, the use of laparoscopic ultrasonography is carried out, which makes it possible to examine the organs of the abdominal cavity. For this purpose, special laparoscopic sensors are used. With their help, the study of hard-to-reach areas is carried out.

Laparoscopy is practically the only diagnostic method by which metastases are determined before surgery. Endoscopy is performed using a special device - an endoscope.

It has a small camera that connects to the computer screen. Using this method, the upper parts of the digestive tract are examined. The endoscope tube during the study period must be swallowed by the patient.

Before this, the throat is irrigated with the use of anesthetics. This provides a simplification of the overcoming process. With the help of the camera during the study period, the walls of the stomach are examined. The doctor looks through the pictures taken by the camera in the eye of the endoscope.

This research method allows you to take a biopsy. In some cases, with the help of an endoscope, a catheter is inserted and all ducts are filled with radiopaque. This makes it possible to conduct x-rays of the gastrointestinal tract.

A variety of research methods can be used to determine the condition of the stomach and intestines. They should be chosen only by a doctor in accordance with the indications and individual characteristics of the patient.