subject: Endoscopic Procedures by:Dr.Phil Xavier [print this page] The Greek root 'endo' means in and 'scope' means a tube. Thus, the term 'endoscopy' refers to the technique of 'looking inside' with the help of a tube. The inside here is the inside of the human body and the tube is a thin tube that is inserted into the body in order to diagnose the problem in the particular region of the body. The upper and lower gastrointestinal tracts can be assessed using this technique. A gastroscopy will enable the surgeon to assess the stomach and proximal small bowel (duodenum), whereas a colonoscopy will evaluate the large bowel (colon and rectum) as well as the distal part of the small bowel (terminal ileum) if needed. These procedures are relatively painless and performed under sedation.
The most widely used endoscopic procedures include -
- Gastroscopy
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy (partial colonoscopy)
- Colonoscopy
Endoscopic procedures are usually the first steps before performing a laparoscopy including keyhole surgery and also gastric banding.
Dr Berney has realised the importance of ongoing developments of new skills in this innovative field for the benefit of his patients, and has made the use of laparoscopic techniques a priority in his practice whenever possible. Beside his advanced laparoscopic surgery subspecialty, he also performs endocrine surgery (thyroid gland, parathyroid gland) and endoscopic procedures such as gastroscopies and colonoscopies.
Dr Berney is committed to delivering high quality service and providing his full attention and a thorough analysis of individual surgical problems. He is dedicated to find the most appropriate and less invasive approach in order to minimise the impact of surgery for his patients.
Dr Berney is also fluent in French and would be very happy to take care of patients of the French speaking community who feel more at ease in communicating in their native language. He has appointments at the Prince of Wales Private, Sydney Private and Bankstown Hospitals and has a conjoint appointment as a Senior Lecturer with the University of NSW. To find out more about Dr Chris Berney's practices, please visit www.safesurgery.com.au
About the author
Dr.Phil Xavier, 58, specialises in surgery. He has an experience of 30 years behind him. His other great passion is Writing. He combines the two to provide interesting and informative articles.
