Endoscopy

Overview

Endoscopy is a minimally invasive technique that uses an endoscope—a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera—to visualize and perform procedures inside the body. This approach is often used to diagnose and treat various conditions with less pain, quicker recovery times, and smaller incisions compared to traditional surgery. As the tube passes through the throat or rectum, an endoscopist can view and manipulate internal body parts.

Indications of Endoscopy

• Persistent abdominal pain or discomfort
• Chronic digestive issues (e.g., acid reflux, swallowing difficulties)
• Unexplained bleeding (gastrointestinal or other internal bleeding)
• Growths or polyps detected during routine screenings

Why Is Endoscopy Done?

A doctor may use an endoscopy procedure to determine the causes behind:

• Cancer of the digestive system
• Abdominal pain
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Polyps or growths in the colon
• Ulcers or difficulty swallowing

Additionally, an endoscopy can be used to perform a biopsy for diagnosing diseases and to treat issues within the digestive tract.

Types of Endoscopy

• Colonoscopy: Scope goes through your anus to look at your entire large intestine (colon).
• Sigmoidoscopy (flexible sigmoidoscopy): Scope goes through your anus to look at the lower part of your colon (called the sigmoid) and your rectum.
• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) or upper endoscopy: Scope goes through your mouth to look at your esophagus, stomach, and the upper part of your small intestine.
• ERCP: A procedure that combines upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy and x-rays to find and treat problems of the bile and pancreatic ducts.

Diagnosis

Endoscopic procedure can be both diagnostic and therapeutic. Diagnostic endoscopy involves:

• Visual Examination: Direct visualization of internal organs to identify abnormalities.
• Biopsy: Collection of tissue samples for further pathological analysis.
• Imaging: Enhanced imaging techniques, such as ultrasound endoscopy, to get detailed pictures of internal organs.

Endoscopic Treatment

Endoscopy can also be therapeutic, offering treatment options such as:

• Polyp Removal: Extracting abnormal growths.
• Stent Placement: Inserting stents to keep passageways open.
• Bleeding Control: Cauterizing or clipping bleeding vessels.
• Foreign Object Removal: Extracting objects accidentally swallowed.
• Tissue Resection: Removing diseased tissue or tumors.

What to Expect Before Endoscopic Treatment at Yatharth Hospitals

Before undergoing an endoscopy, the doctor will perform a physical examination and review the patient's medical history, including any previous surgeries. Patients should inform the doctor about all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and nutritional supplements. The doctor may ask the patient to stop taking certain medications to prevent excessive bleeding during the procedure. Depending on the area to be examined, patients may need to stop eating and drinking for a few hours before the endoscopy.

What to Expect During Endoscopy

Patients may receive local anesthesia to numb the specific area along with a sedative to help them relax. The doctor will carefully insert the endoscope into the body, and the healthcare team will monitor the patient’s blood pressure and heart rate throughout the procedure.

In some cases, a capsule endoscopy may be used, where the patient swallows a capsule containing a tiny camera. This camera captures images of the digestive tract and transmits them to a recorder worn around the patient’s waist.

What to Expect After Endoscopy

After the endoscopy, patients may experience mild side effects like a dry throat, soreness, bloating, and gas, which usually disappear within a few hours. If the patient has fully recovered, the doctor may discharge them. If sedation was used, the patient should be taken home by another person and should avoid driving or operating machinery for the rest of the day. The doctor will provide a follow-up schedule for the patient.

Patients should immediately contact their doctor if they experience any of the following symptoms after endoscopic surgery:

• Chest pain
• Fever
• Abnormal stool
• Severe abdominal pain
• Shortness of breath

This is not an exhaustive list of symptoms, so it’s advised to reach out to the doctor if any discomfort arises post-surgery.

Advantages of Endoscopy

Endoscopic treatment offers several benefits:

• Minimal blood loss
• Less pain
• No muscle or tissue trauma
• Small incisions
• Low risk of infection
• Minimal hospital stay

What to Know About Endoscopic Treatment in Noida, Faridabad, Delhi NCR

Endoscopic surgery at Yatharth Hospitals involves using an endoscope to perform surgical procedures. It is generally safe, but potential risks include infection, high fever, gastrointestinal perforation, redness and swelling at the incision site, drug reactions, bleeding, chest pain, and persistent pain around the surgery area.

Special instruments are used to manipulate and operate on tissues and organs without making a large skin incision, making endoscopic surgery cosmetically advantageous. In gastrointestinal science, many new surgical procedures have been developed, such as Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) for early gastric and esophageal cancer and Per Oral Endoscopic Myotomy Surgery (POEMS) for achalasia cardia.

Patients often experience quick recovery and high acceptance of the procedure.

FAQs

Q: What conditions can endoscopic surgery treat?

A: Endoscopic surgery can treat a wide range of conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory issues, joint problems, urinary tract issues, and gynecological problems.

​Q: Is endoscopic surgery safe?

A: Yes, endoscopic surgery is generally safe and has fewer risks compared to traditional surgery. However, as with any procedure, there are potential risks and complications which your doctor will discuss with you.

Q: How long does recovery take after endoscopic surgery?

A: Recovery time is typically shorter than traditional surgery, often allowing patients to go home the same day or after a short hospital stay. Full recovery can vary depending on the procedure and individual health conditions.

Q: Will I need anesthesia for endoscopic surgery?

A: Yes, anesthesia is usually required, but the type (local, regional, or general) depends on the specific procedure and patient needs.

Q: How should I prepare for endoscopic surgery?

A: Preparation may include fasting for a certain period, avoiding certain medications, and arranging for transportation home post-procedure. Your doctor will provide specific instructions based on your case.

Conclusion

At Yatharth Hospital, our experienced gastroenterologists utilize state-of-the-art endoscopic technology to provide minimally invasive solutions for various medical conditions. Our patient-centered approach ensures personalized care and optimal outcomes for each individual.