[Preparation methods and conditions of gastrointestinal tract imaging methods]

Gastrology development is based on quick advancement in the area of imaging methods, especially radiologic and endoscopic methods. Currently, there is possibility of imaging the whole gastrointestinal tract with endoscopic methods as well as double-balloon method and endoscopic capsule. Those two latter methods allow the intestine examination that was out of the range of classic endoscopic methods. Radiologic methods as X-ray methods, ultrasonography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance and virtual colonoscopy are great assets for every Igastroenterologists. Apart from diagnostic value important there is a significant asset of endoscopic methods namely possiblility of curative procedure as polypectomy or bleeding treatment. The method that combine radiological and endoscpic method is endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endosonography (EUS). ERCP allows the diagnosis establishing as well as decide to perform curative treatment. EUS is a combination of endoscopic method and ultrasonographic imaging. It allows the imaging of the tissues deep into the wall of gastrointestinal tract. Having such broad imaging methods we have to remember that very important for method efficacy and safety is proper qualification and preparation of the patient for that procedure.