This book is a review of the basic tests available in gastroenterology. Emphasis is placed on these techniques of which the authors have personal experiece. The philosophy has been to evaluate investigations for their current clinical usefulness in the management of patients. A critical analysis has been made to describe those older tests which have proved their worth alongside the newer procedures which have been introduced. Just as some recent additions have rapidly gained importance, some familiar tests have lost significance because of medical progress. Testing for Helicobacter pylori has more use than acid secretory studies in the age when antibiotics have displaced the surgeon in the management of chronic peptic ulcer disease. The book is designed for trainees and clinicians without special expertise in gastroenterology, as well as being a shelf manual for the gastroenterologist and the staff of gastroenterology investigation units. Special thanks are due to the nurses on the Bishop Auckland Gastroenterology Unit, and to Amanda Gallagher who typed the manuscript. Malcolm C. Bateson Ian A.D. Bouchier 1996 Xl CHAPTER 1 H elicobacter pylori INTRODUCTION The discovery of the presence of this organism in many human stomachs and its association with disease has revolutionized our approach to peptic ulcer. Detection of H. pylori infection of the gastric mucosa and proof of its absence after eradication therapy have become pivotal in patient management. EPIDEMIOLOGY H. pylori infection is strongly associated with age and inversely with wealth.

This book is a completely up-to-date review of the basic tests available in gastroenterology. It is based on a detailed critical analysis of recently described procedures and the review of more traditional methods; each is as signed its correct place in the modern management of patients. Emphasis is placed on those techniques with which the authors have practical experience. The most useful investigations are indicated in the table of contents by heavy type. Comprehensive references are included to provide information about the selection, performance and interpretation of tests. The book is designed for trainees and clinicians without special expertise in gastroenterology, as well as being a shelf manual for the gastroenterologist and the staff of gastrointestinal investigation units. Special thanks are due to the nursing staff of the Day Ward, Bishop Auck land General Hospital; Mr P. Grencis, Medical Photographer; Dr S. Desai, Radiologist; and Amanda Gallagher who typed the manuscript. Malcolm C. Bateson Ian A. D. Bouchier 1988 xu CHAPTER 1 Intubation The passage of various forms of nasogastric, duodenal and intestinal tubes is basic to many of the diagnostic procedures performed in the gastrointestinal system. Method Whenever possible the patient's fullest co-operation should be obtained. If the patient is taking any drugs which might influence the test to be under taken these should be discontinued."

This book is a completely up-to-date review of the basic tests available in gastroenterology. It is based on a detailed critical analysis of recently described procedures and the review of more traditional methods; each is as signed its correct place in the modern management of patients. Emphasis is placed on those techniques with which the authors have practical experience. The most useful investigations are indicated in the table of contents by heavy type. Comprehensive references are included to provide information about the selection, performance and interpretation of tests. The book is designed for trainees and clinicians without special expertise in gastroenterology, as well as being a shelf manual for the gastroenterologist and the staff of gastrointestinal investigation units. Special thanks are due to the nursing staff of the Day Ward, Bishop Auck land General Hospital; Mr P. Grencis, Medical Photographer; Dr S. Desai, Radiologist; and Amanda Gallagher who typed the manuscript. Malcolm C. Bateson Ian A. D. Bouchier 1988 xu CHAPTER 1 Intubation The passage of various forms of nasogastric, duodenal and intestinal tubes is basic to many of the diagnostic procedures performed in the gastrointestinal system. Method Whenever possible the patient's fullest co-operation should be obtained. If the patient is taking any drugs which might influence the test to be under taken these should be discontinued."