The main tests we perform in the Digestive System are the following.

  • Endoscopies: refers to tests in which an endoscope (long flexible tube with a viewing system) is inserted through the mouth (called gastroscopy, oesophagogastroduodenoscopy, oral panendoscopy, or EDA) or anus (rectoscopy, colonoscopy, or EDB) to directly view the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract. These tests are generally painless, although in most cases they can be performed under varying degrees of sedation to avoid discomfort and facilitate the procedure itself. That is why patients should come accompanied by another adult (the effects of sedation last for hours). Strict pre-preparation is required for optimal visualisation of the gastrointestinal tract, and anticoagulants and/or antiplatelet agents may need to be discontinued. Biopsies are often taken, although they are not painful. Removal of polyps during colonoscopy is also frequent. Following the procedure, the patient receives a set of guidelines to follow until complete reintegration into his or her regular daily activities.
  • Special mention should be made of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which acts on the biliary or pancreatic duct, and echoendoscopy, which has the peculiarity of combining endoscopy with ultrasound for a very precise image of the internal organs.
  • Oesophageal manometry consists of measuring the contractions of the oesophagus using a probe introduced through the nose. It is important to read the indications, as medications may need to be discontinued.
  • pH-metry measures the acid content of the oesophagus through a probe placed through the nose, usually for 24 hours while going about normal life. After 24 hours, you must return to the hospital to have the probe and meter removed.
  • The capsule endoscope consists of a digital photo system miniaturised so as to fit in a capsule which the patient swallows with a little water. Intestinal cleansing is also required. The photos are stored on a small external device. Once the test has been completed, the patient must retrieve the stool capsule for disposal according to indications, in order to avoid contaminating the water.
  • Abdominal ultrasound and hepatic elastography are harmless tests performed on an empty stomach.

IMPORTANT: If you have been prescribed a test, you should carefully read the INDICATIONS, which you will find in the Patient Portal.

Health and wellness initiatives

  • Fundación Jiménez Díaz is committed to preventing and treating Colorectal Cancer, which is why we have implemented the ENHANCED PREVECOLON programme, thus ensuring that screening for colon and rectal cancer reaches the maximum number of people possible.
  • We organise meetings with patients and families with Coeliac Disease.
  • We are developing a strategy to eradicate HCV.

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