Digestive System Procedures/specialists

Question 0

Proctologist

Answer 0

A physician specializing in diseases of the rectum and anus. Proctology is a surgical sub specialty.

Question 1

Gastroenterologist

Answer 1

A physician specializing in diseases of the digestive system including esophagus, stomach, and intestines. These specialist do not do surgery. Patients needing surgery are referred to a general surgeon.

Question 2

Guaiac test (Hemoccult, Fecult)

Answer 2

A special chemical test to identify blood in the stool (feces). Blood in the stool may have many causes including cancer and hemorrhoids.

Question 3

Upper GI series

Answer 3

A series of X-rays of the esophagus and stomach and small intestines having the patient swallow a “milkshake” of barium. The element barium is opaque, i.e. blocks, X-rays. This procedure may be used to identify problems with swallowing, stomach ulcers, twisting of the small intestines.

Question 4

Lower GI series

Answer 4

A series of X-rays using a barium enema to show the large intestine and rectum. This procedure can be used to identify problems such as diverticulitis/diverticulosis, and tumors.

Question 5

Endoscopy

Answer 5

Use of a flexible fiber optic instrument attached to a video camera that can be used to directly visualize the esophagus, stomach and large bowel.

Question 6

Ultrasonography (ultrasound)

Answer 6

A procedure using high frequency sound waves to visualize internal organs. Primarily used to visualize abdominal and pelvic organs, such as the pregnant uterus.