What is Endoscopy ?

Also called Uper GI Endoscopy

Upper G I Endoscopy have become one of the important Investigations,

For understanding the inner health of our Gastrointestinal system,

Most commonly stomach .

Endoscopy is also done to perform some very delicate procedures like ERCP,

Which means removal of stones from CBD.

Procedure:

A thin, flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the upper digestive tract.

Why Endoscopy is done ?

Endoscopy is done in patients who have pain abdomen,

Where all routine Investigations like Blood Tests and ultrasound are already done,

But cause of pain abdomen is still not found.

Sometimes Endoscopy is also done to take biopsy or Tissue speciment of inner linings of stomach,

Other Inications of Endoscopy include ERCP or Foreign body removal,

Fundal plication in patients of Liver Cirrhosis with bleeding Tendencies.

What is the prepration needed for Endoscopy ?

You should be empty stomach,

If you have high blood pressure you should take your morning pill.

Usually Patients can withstand the examination without any sedation,

You just need to swallow a flexible tube with attached camera,

Procedure of endoscopy is complete within 10-15 minutes.

But You should stay in hopital for around 1-2 hours.

Report is handed over to you after 2-3 hours.

You can leave for home after 3 hours.

What are the Risks of Endoscopy ?

Although Endoscopy is a safe procedre,

Major Risks are Bleeding which is a rare complication

Perforation is extremely rare.

Anyone can undergo Upper GI Endoscopy with very little difficulty.