Endoscopy is a general name for procedures that use a tube instrument to examine hollow organs of the body, such as the bladder, the stomach, the colon or the lungs. The endoscopes are flexible with a tiny camera on the tip which allows the doctor to see the inside of the organ. This gives the doctor a more precise idea of what is causing the patient pain, discomfort, bleeding or other symptoms.
Endoscopy is used to diagnose many different diseases, and remove polyps which can be precancerous. Endoscopic procedures are especially important in diagnosing cancer. Many times there is no other way to “see inside’ the body, even with advances in medical imaging. The endoscopy of a colon, for example, can provide early cancer detection, diagnosis, staging (seeing how advanced a cancer is) and ultimately determine treatment.
Your primary physician may suggest endoscopy based on your symptoms or as a screening. Your physician will refer you to another physician who specializes in endoscopic procedures. The specialist will provide you with information about the recommended procedure and how to prepare for it.
Endoscopy Locations
4201 Medical Center Drive
McHenry, IL 60050
Phone:
(815) 344.5000
3701 Doty Road
Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone:
(815) 338.2500