Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 18, 2026
03:43
Structured Approach to Colonoscopy Technique Optimization: A Single-Center Experience with Novice Endoscopists
Published on: July 11, 2025
910
Endoscopy in the Elderly: a Cautionary Approach, When to Stop
Rita Abdelmessih1, Christopher D Packey1, Garrett Lawlor2
1NY-Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University Medical Center, PH 7, 7th Floor, 622 W168th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
Current Treatment Options in Gastroenterology
|July 2, 2016
Summary
Endoscopic screening for average-risk elderly patients involves weighing risks and benefits, with consensus suggesting cessation after 85 years. However, healthier aging populations may warrant individualized screening beyond these guidelines.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Geriatric Medicine
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Endoscopic procedures in the elderly present higher risks than in younger populations.
- Screening protocols for average-risk elderly patients present a complex risk-benefit analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare national and international guidelines for average-risk screening procedures in the elderly.
- To identify consensus on screening practices, specifically for colonoscopic colorectal screening and Barrett's surveillance.
Main Methods:
- Review and comparison of existing national and international guidelines.
- Analysis of recommendations for average-risk screening procedures in elderly populations.
Main Results:
- General agreement exists that at 75 years, risk-benefit assessment based on health and comorbidities is appropriate.
- Most guidelines recommend ceasing colorectal cancer screening after age 85.
Conclusions:
- While guidelines suggest screening cessation around age 85, the aging population's improved health may necessitate individualized screening decisions beyond this age.
- A nuanced approach is needed, considering individual patient health and comorbidities for elderly screening protocols.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Endoscopic Procedures I: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
1.8K
An Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a diagnostic procedure in which an endoscopist uses a flexible, lighted endoscope to visualize the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The procedure includes visualizing the oropharynx, esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine, the duodenum.
During an EGD, the endoscope can be used to:
During an EGD, the endoscope can be used to:
1.8K
01:25Endoscopic Procedures II: Colonoscopy
1.0K
The colon, or large intestine, is the final segment of the digestive system. Its primary functions include absorbing water and vitamins produced by gut bacteria and transforming waste from liquid to solid to form stool. In adults, the large intestine is approximately 5 feet long and consists of four main sections:
1.0K
01:26Endoscopic Procedures V: ERCP
5.2K
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a diagnostic procedure that combines endoscopy and fluoroscopy to diagnose and treat conditions related to the bile ducts, pancreatic ducts, and gallbladder. This procedure is beneficial for identifying and addressing blockages, gallstones, strictures, and tumors within the biliary or pancreatic systems. ERCP is both diagnostic and therapeutic, offering the ability to visualize and treat identified problems in one session.
Patient...
Patient...
5.2K
01:26Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy
987
Sigmoidoscopy and laparoscopy are distinct medical procedures that enable physicians to internally inspect different parts of the GI tract. Although they serve different purposes, each is essential for diagnosing and, in some cases, treating various medical conditions.
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
987
01:28Endoscopic Procedures III: Video Capsule Endoscopy
1.1K
Capsule endoscopy, or wireless or video capsule endoscopy, is a diagnostic procedure for examining the entire gastrointestinal tract. Patients swallow a capsule about the size of a vitamin tablet. The capsule is equipped with a transmitter, a battery, an LED light source, and a color video camera to capture images throughout the gastrointestinal tract. This procedure is particularly useful for diagnosing conditions such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, tumors, polyps, ulcers,...
1.1K
01:26Endoscopic Studies II: Thoracocentesis
1.9K
Thoracentesis(Thoracocentesis), commonly known as pleural tap, is a medical procedure where a 22 gauge needle is inserted into the pleural space, the area between the lung and chest wall. This procedure is commonly performed to diagnose or treat various respiratory disorders.
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...
1.9K