GASTROSCOPY
What is an endoscopy of the upper gastrointestinal tract?
An endoscopy of the upper gastrointestinal tract involves using a bendable instrument called an “endoscope” to view the inner lining of the oesophagus, stomach and the entrance of the small intestine. The procedure is carried out to diagnose the cause of vomiting, reflux, nausea, stomach or chest pain, indigestion and bleeding.
An endoscope is a slender tube-like instrument with a light and camera attached which helps capture images of the upper gastrointestinal tract, which is projected onto a monitor for the doctor to see. The flexibility of the scope makes it possible to manoeuvre the instrument around the curves of the gut. The endoscope is also used to inflate air into the cavity, which helps expand the tissues inside the stomach so the doctor can view the area extensively. As a result, patients typically experience cramping, pressure and bloating in the region.
How do you perform a gastroscopy?
The patient is asked to lie on their left side, and, as a result, the doctor inserts the endoscope via the mouth, which is passed into the oesophagus, stomach and first segment of the small intestine. A gastroscopy is done to remove or cauterise abnormal growths and remove tissue samples for biopsy.
How long is a gastroscopy expected to take?
Patients can expect two to three hours of waiting, preparation for the procedure and recovery. The surgery itself usually takes ten to fifteen minutes.
How do you prepare for a gastroscopy?
The stomach must remain empty in order to perform a gastroscopy safely and effectively. It’s therefore advised that patients stop drinking and eating at least six hours before the scheduled procedure.
What happens if you find something wrong?
A biopsy involves removing a portion of the stomach lining and transferring the sample to the laboratory for a detailed analysis. Generally, biopsies are done to identify conditions causing discomfort, pain and other associated symptoms of the disease.
Why do you remove polyps?
Polyps are unusual growths that appear flesh-like and manifest in the bowel lining. A polyp can be as tiny as a droplet or range from several centimetres in size. Polyps are not generally considered cancerous, but there’s still a possibility they may turn cancerous over time. By removing polyps using a loop wire inserted through the endoscope or the use of an electrical current, the surgeon can reduce the potential risk of bowel cancer.
What happens after a gastroscopy?
The patient remains in the recovery area for two hours after the effects of sedation wear off. Furthermore, the patient will be instructed when he/she can begin eating or drinking, usually directly after the procedure. In addition, a sore throat is to be expected, which is accompanied by cramping or bloating.
FAQ
- Undetected polyps/abnormal growths
- Perforation in the oesophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine.
- Infection of the blood
- An adverse reaction to the medication administered is a condition referred to as anaphylaxis.
- Incomplete procedure due to underlying problems affecting the body.
For your own safety, you mustn't drive on the day of the gastroscopy but instead arrange for someone else to drive you home.
In addition, refrain from doing the following:
- Operating heavy machinery or cooking appliances
- Refrain from signing important documents or making decisions
- Avoid smoking, drinking and using any other toxic substances.
- Do not stay alone the night after the procedure.
- Prolonged abdominal pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fever
- Throat or chest pain
- Swelling, tenderness and redness at the injection site (for sedation) over 48 hours