The Benedictine Hospital Endoscopy and G. I. Services Unit provides a complete line of lower andupper gastroenterological studies including gastroscopy, colonoscopy, esophageal dilation and liver biopsy. Endoscopic studies and therapeutic intervention of the biliary and pancreatic systems are also available. Endoscopic procedures involve direct visualization using state of the art video scopes. The unit works in conjunction with area gastroenterologist and colorectal surgeons. Bronchoscopies, which provide direct visualization of the lungs are also provided by area pulmonologists in this unit.
The unit has four newly-renovated procedure rooms and a comfortable waiting area for families.
Colorectal cancers are the third most common cancers in men and women. It is estimated that about 130,200 new cases will be diagnosed in the year 2000. According to the American Cancer Society there has been a 2.1% per year decline in incidence rates during the period from 1992-1996. It has been suggested by research that these declines may be due to increased screening and polyp removal. The removal of polyps prevents a to invasive cancers.
The five-year relative survival rate from colorectal cancers increases by over 80% when the cancer is detected early at the localized stage, rather than at the late stage when distant metastases have already occurred. Current guidelines recommend screening start at the age of 50 for those of average risk. People with a personal or strong family history of colorectal cancer or polyps should start screening earlier. People with a personal history of chronic inflammatory bowel disease should also start screening earlier. These are just a few general guidelines and you should discuss your personal and family history with your physician to determine the most appropriate colorectal screening program for you.
Colonoscopy is one of the tools that may be used for colorectal screening. It involves the use of a scope to visualize the entire colon. Polyps may be removed through this scope. Areas your physician may want more information about may be biopsied and sent to the lab for further study. A form of anesthesia called conscious sedation is used during the procedure to keep you comfortable. It does not put you to sleep completely. When any form of sedation is used you must have someone available to drive you home. The Benedictine Hospital's Endoscopy Unit along with area physicians trained in colonoscopy provides this service in a safe and caring manner.
The Benedictine Hospital Endoscopy and G.I. Services Unit is staffed with experienced gastroenterological nurses and associates who are available to assist every step of the way from admission, through your procedure, recovery and discharge. The unit employees the largest number of certified gastroenterological nurses in the area and is under the direction of a clinical nurse specialist. The staff is dedicated to providing service excellence and maintaining current knowledge in this field.
The Benedictine Hospital Endoscopy Unit follows all guidelines regarding cleaning and processing of endoscopes and accessories. Endoscopes are cleaned and processed by specially trained staff members and sterilized after each procedure using state of the art equipment. No employee is allowed to clean or process the equipment without undergoing specialized training and testing.