Flowchart for GI Systems Since each patient is different with a different set of circumstances there is no absolute diagnostic sequence that can be properly applied in every case. However there are general steps that are taken to guide the healing process and provide the highest quality care to the patient.

All initial basic medical checks are performed to identify the source of disease and ill health. These are common to all patients in a routine physical examination. This crucial procedure is the primary and basic first step to guide the diagnosis.

Colonoscopy is used in many cases once a GI tract problem has been identified. This procedure involves a tube like instrument with a camera that can look in the GI tract and collect samples. This procedure can be done on an outpatient exchange its costs are minimal.

Upper Endoscopy may be used to help further the diagnostic understanding of the patient....

This procedure uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera inserted through the mouth, following the tract to the stomach and upper small intestine, to look for bleeding, ulcers and inflammation.
4. The next procedure that may be used and is costs is greater than the previous procedure is called the Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). This test is when done looking for problems in the liver, gallbladder, pancreas or bile ducts. Once at the test, the patient will receive sedating medication. Vital signs and heart rhythm will be monitored for changes. After local anesthesia, the flexible endoscope is passed down the patient's throat, into the stomach and duodenum. Dye is then injected into the pancreatic ducts and x-rays are taken to look for abnormalities, such as gallstones, inflammation or cancer.

Diagnostic Tests for Cardiovascular Systems

1. The first step is similar to…