Tähystystutkimus

Tähystystutkimus, or endoscopy in English, is a medical procedure used to examine the internal organs and cavities of the body. It involves inserting a flexible or rigid tube, called an endoscope, into the body. The endoscope is equipped with a light source and a camera, which transmits images to a monitor, allowing the physician to visualize the area of interest.

There are various types of endoscopic examinations, categorized by the body part being investigated. For example, gastroscopy examines the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, while colonoscopy visualizes the large intestine. Bronchoscopy is used for the airways, and cystoscopy for the bladder. The specific type of tähystystutkimus depends on the patient's symptoms and the suspected condition.

During the procedure, the endoscope can be used for diagnostic purposes, such as identifying inflammation, ulcers, polyps, or tumors. It can also be used for therapeutic interventions, such as taking tissue samples (biopsies), removing polyps, stopping bleeding, or dilating narrowed passages.

Tähystystutkimus is typically performed under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure patient comfort. The preparation for the procedure varies depending on the type of endoscopy but often involves fasting and bowel preparation. After the examination, patients may experience mild discomfort, such as bloating or a sore throat, which usually resolves quickly. The results of the tähystystutkimus are crucial for diagnosing and managing a wide range of gastrointestinal, respiratory, and urological conditions.