The Endoscope

Question 1

What are varices?

Answer 1

Abnormally dlated blood vessels with a tortuous course - associated with liver disease

Question 2

What is an angiodysplasia?

Answer 2

A small vascular malformation of the gut

Question 3

What commonly causes a Mallory-Weiss tear in the oesophagus?

Answer 3

Excessive vomiting

Question 4

What are diverticulae?

Answer 4

Blind tubes leading from a cavity or passage

Question 5

How would variceal bleeding be treated? (3)

Answer 5

1. Sclerosant - injectable irritant causing inflammation and fibrosis obliterating the lumen of the vessel
2. Histoacryl glue - a glue to close wounds
3. Banding - rubber bands placed around varices by an endoscope

Question 6

How would arterial bleeding be treated? (3)

Answer 6

1. Injectable therapy - adrenaline causes vasoconstriction
2. Heater probe - burns vessels
3. Clips - can block blood flow

Question 7

Which conditions may be screened for using an endoscope?

Answer 7

UC, colonic polyps, Barrett’s oesophagus