Pediatric Gastroenterology

Gastroenterology is a branch of science that deals with diseases of the digestive system. It includes the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon) and rectal region, as well as diseases of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas and abdominal wall.

Gastroenterologists are specialists who have received advanced training in these diseases. A total of 13 years of education is required to become a gastroenterologist: 6 years of medical school education, 4 years of internal medicine assistantship and 3 years of gastroenterology subspecialty training. During this process, specialists receive training in advanced interventional procedures such as gastroscopy, colonoscopy, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS), capsule endoscopy, PH meter and manometry.

In the Presence of Which Symptoms and Diseases Should Gastroenterology Be Consulted?

• Reflux
• Painful swallowing, difficulty swallowing
• Unexplained chest pain
• Bloating
• Dyspepsia (indigestion)
• Persistent hiccups
• Abdominal pain
• Weight loss
• Changes in bowel habits
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Bleeding from the rectum or black stools
• A palpable mass in the abdomen
• Polyps
• Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease, Ulcerative colitis)
• Food intolerance
• Eating disease
• Diverticula
• Hepatitis (Hepatitis A, B, C, D)
• Bile duct and pancreas diseases
• Gastrointestinal system tumors
• Jaundice

Gastroenterology Diagnostic and Therapeutic Methods

Gastroscopy

Gastroscopy is a method used to evaluate the esophagus, stomach and first sections of the duodenum. This procedure is performed with the help of a flexible tube with a tiny camera on its end. Thanks to gastroscopy:

• Conditions such as inflammation, tumors, and bleeding can be detected.
• Polyps or foreign objects can be removed.
• Treatment can be planned by providing early diagnosis.

Preparation Before the Procedure:

• You should remain fasting for 8 hours.
• You should inform your physician if you are using blood thinners.

Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is a procedure in which the large intestine and the last part of the small intestine are examined. Early diagnosis and removal of polyps provides important advantages such as early diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Preparation Before the Procedure:

• Intestinal preparation is done the day before.
• Inform your doctor if you are using blood thinners.

Capsule Endoscopy

Capsule endoscopy is a method used to evaluate the small intestines that cannot be reached by gastroscopy and colonoscopy. In this procedure, a mini camera that can be swallowed by mouth is used. The capsule records images for 8 hours as it moves through the digestive system.

Preparation Before the Procedure:

• The intestines are prepared.
• After the capsule is swallowed, data is collected with a recording device carried on you.
• You can drink water after 2 hours and consume liquid foods after 4 hours.

Capsule endoscopy plays an important role in the diagnosis of hidden bleeding and other problems, especially in the small intestine.

Endoscopic Ultrasonography (EUS)

Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is a method used to examine the digestive system organs and is an advanced imaging method used for detailed evaluation of surrounding tissues. With this method, masses and lesions located behind organs such as the stomach, esophagus, gallbladder and pancreas can be visualized more clearly.

Advantages of EUS:

• It provides accurate results in staging and determining the characteristics of tumors.
• Surgical burden reduces, makes the biopsy process easier.
• It provides more detailed information than traditional ultrasound.

PH Meter

PH meter is a method used in the diagnosis of reflux disease. This procedure is performed with a catheter inserted through the nose and placed at the junction between the esophagus and stomach. The catheter measures the leakage of stomach acid into the esophagus for 24 hours.

During the Procedure:

• You can continue your daily activities.
• You can indicate any complaints by pressing the button on the recording device.

After the Procedure:

• The data obtained after the catheter is removed is analyzed by your physician.

Esophageal Manometry

Esophageal manometry is a method used to measure the pressures in the esophagus. This procedure is especially used to determine the causes of symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, painful swallowing and chest pain.

Preparation Before the Procedure:

• Do not fast for at least 6 hours. should be stayed.
• Medications that may affect esophageal function should be discontinued 24 hours before the procedure.

Procedure Duration: This procedure, which takes approximately 30 minutes, is performed by inserting a catheter nasally.

ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio Pancreatography)

ERCP is a method used for the evaluation and treatment of the bile ducts and pancreatic duct. This procedure is performed with a special endoscopy device called a duodenoscope. It is an effective method for cleaning gallstones, treating tumors and other similar conditions.

Advantages of ERCP:

• It is used for both diagnosis and treatment.
• It increases patient comfort by minimizing surgical procedures.

Biruni University Hospital Gastroenterology Department offers world-class service in the diagnosis and treatment of digestive system diseases with its expert physician staff and advanced diagnostic methods.