GI Diagnostic Procedures and Endoscopy

Question 1

Which bowel preparation is most commonly used before colonoscopy in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) electrolyte solution

Answer

Polyethylene glycol-based solutions (e.g., GoLYTELY) are the most widely used colonoscopy prep due to safety and efficacy across patient populations.

Question 2

The Boston Bowel Preparation Scale (BBPS) scores each of the three colon segments from 0 to 3; what is the minimum acceptable total score for an adequate colonoscopy?

Accepted Answer

6

Answer

A BBPS total score of ≥6 (with no individual segment score <2) is generally considered adequate preparation for colonoscopy.

Question 3

During upper endoscopy (EGD), the Z-line (squamocolumnar junction) is normally located at approximately how many centimeters from the incisors?

Accepted Answer

35–40 cm

Answer

The gastroesophageal junction and Z-line are typically found at 35–40 cm from the incisors in adults of average height.

Question 4

Capsule endoscopy is considered the first-line test for suspected bleeding in which GI region?

Accepted Answer

Small bowel (mid-GI)

Answer

Video capsule endoscopy is the first-line investigation for obscure GI bleeding or suspected small bowel pathology beyond the reach of standard endoscopes.

Question 5

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is considered first-line therapy for which condition?

Accepted Answer

Common bile duct stones (choledocholithiasis)

Answer

ERCP with sphincterotomy and stone extraction is the standard of care for choledocholithiasis causing biliary obstruction or cholangitis.

Gastrointestinal GI Practice Practice Test

Gastrointestinal GI Practice Practice Test

GI Diagnostic Procedures and Endoscopy