An endoscopy is a procedure in
which the doctor uses a long, flexible tube with a light at
the end to look into the inside of the body. It is commonly
used to check the upper gastrointestinal tract (GIT)
including the throat, oesophagus, stomach, and first part of
the small intestine (duodenum). The lower GIT can also be
examined in a similar fashion, a procedure termed as
colonoscopy. The entire procedure is visualized on a TV
monitor. In addition to making a diagnosis, endoscopy can
also be used to provide treatment as described below.
When is it done?
An upper GI endoscopy is done in patients
having problems in swallowing, frequent heartburn, abdominal
pain, chest discomfort, vomiting especially of blood or
abnormal findings on gastrointestinal X-rays. Colonoscopy is
performed in patients passing blood in the stools, to check
for colon cancer and to remove precancerous lesions such as
polyps.
As an alternative to endoscopy, barium contrast X-rays may
be done which use a contrast medium (barium) to highlight
the intestinal tract on X-rays.
How to prepare for an upper GI
endoscopy?
The patient has to be fasting
for at least 6 to 8 hours before this procedure. Follow any
other instructions the doctor gives.
What happens during the
procedure?
A local anaesthetic liquid is
given before the procedure to numb the throat and prevent
gagging and pain. In apprehensive patients, a sedative is
given intravenously to allay any anxiety. The endoscope is
passed through the mouth and down the oesophagus (food pipe)
upto the duodenum. Any abnormality such as ulcers, tumours
or inflammation of the mucosal lining of the oesophagus,
stomach, or duodenum can be seen. A small piece of a tissue
sample (biopsy) can be taken for analysis in the pathology
laboratory. After examining the GI tract the tube is
withdrawn. The viewed images can be stored on a video
cassette or a computer for archival or record purposes.
What happens after the
procedure?
The patient is kept under
observation for an hour. A mild irritation or soreness of
the throat may be felt after the procedure.
What are the benefits of this
procedure?
Endoscopy helps the doctor to
make a more accurate diagnosis of diseases of the
gastrointestinal tract. In addition, endoscopy can be used
to provide treatment like removing foreign bodies, benign
tumours such as polyps, opening up of strictures, removing
obstructed gallstones and stopping active bleeding from
ulcers or from dilated veins called varices.
What are the risks associated
with this procedure?
This is a safe procedure but as with all
medical procedures, there is a small risk involved. The
local anaesthesia may not be effective and discomfort may be
felt during the procedure. Some people may develop an
allergic reaction to the local anaesthetic or the sedative.
There is a small risk of tear of the lining of the throat,
stomach, or intestine. There is also a small risk of
infection or bleeding.
When should the doctor be
called?
The doctor should be called immediately if
there is fever, nausea or vomiting, acute pain or bleeding
after the procedure.
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