Medical Department

Advanced Examination of the Digestive System

Endoscopy is a medical procedure that allows doctors to examine the inside of the digestive tract using a specialised flexible instrument equipped with a camera. It can help identify the cause of digestive symptoms and, when required, allow certain procedures or tissue samples to be performed during the examination.

At K & K Super Speciality Hospital, Endoscopy services can support the diagnosis and evaluation of various gastrointestinal conditions. The procedure is recommended based on the patient's symptoms, medical history, and clinical requirements.

What is an Endoscopy?

An endoscopy uses a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope. The instrument has a camera and light that allow the doctor to view the internal lining of the digestive tract.

An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, commonly called an upper GI endoscopy, allows examination of the:

• Oesophagus
• Stomach
• Duodenum

The procedure can help doctors identify abnormalities that may not be visible through routine examinations or blood tests.

Why is an Endoscopy Performed?

A doctor may recommend an endoscopy to investigate symptoms such as:

• Persistent abdominal pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Persistent heartburn or acid reflux
• Nausea or vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent indigestion
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Black or unusually dark stools
• Persistent bloating or discomfort
• Unexplained anaemia in selected cases

Endoscopy may also be recommended to monitor or evaluate certain known digestive conditions.

Conditions That May Be Evaluated

An upper GI endoscopy can help doctors evaluate conditions affecting the upper digestive tract, including:

• Gastritis
• Stomach ulcers
• Duodenal ulcers
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Inflammation of the oesophagus
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Narrowing of the digestive tract
• Certain growths or lesions
• Other abnormalities of the upper gastrointestinal tract

The exact findings and diagnosis depend on the patient's clinical condition.

Endoscopy for Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Bleeding from the digestive tract may sometimes require urgent medical evaluation.

Endoscopy can help identify a potential source of bleeding in the upper digestive tract and, in selected cases, allow the doctor to perform treatment during the same procedure.

Patients with vomiting of blood, black stools, severe weakness, dizziness, or other signs of significant bleeding should seek urgent medical attention.

Endoscopy and Biopsy

During an endoscopy, the doctor may identify an area that requires further examination.

A small tissue sample, known as a biopsy, may be collected using instruments passed through the endoscope.

A biopsy may be recommended to:

• Investigate abnormal tissue
• Evaluate inflammation
• Assess certain infections
• Examine suspicious lesions
• Help diagnose other gastrointestinal conditions

The tissue sample may be sent to a laboratory for further examination.

How is an Endoscopy Performed?

An upper GI endoscopy generally involves the following steps:

1. The patient receives instructions regarding fasting before the procedure.
2. The medical team reviews the patient's medical history and medications.
3. Appropriate preparation and monitoring are arranged.
4. The endoscope is gently passed through the mouth.
5. The doctor examines the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
6. Biopsies or selected procedures may be performed when clinically required.
7. The endoscope is carefully removed after the examination.

The procedure is generally performed under appropriate medical supervision.

Sedation During Endoscopy

Depending on the procedure and the patient's clinical circumstances, medication may be provided to improve comfort and reduce anxiety.

The type of sedation or anaesthesia used depends on the procedure, patient factors, and the medical team's assessment.

Patients should inform the healthcare team about any previous reactions to anaesthesia or sedation.

Preparing for an Endoscopy

Proper preparation helps the doctor obtain a clear view of the digestive tract.

Patients are generally advised to follow specific fasting instructions before an upper GI endoscopy.

Before the procedure, inform your doctor about:

• Current medications
• Blood-thinning medicines
• Diabetes medicines
• Allergies
• Existing medical conditions
• Previous reactions to sedation or anaesthesia
• Pregnancy, when applicable

Do not stop any prescribed medicine unless specifically instructed by your doctor.

What Happens After an Endoscopy?

After the procedure, patients may be observed for a period of time, particularly if sedation has been used.

Temporary symptoms may include:

• Mild throat discomfort
• Bloating
• Mild abdominal discomfort
• Drowsiness following sedation

Patients who receive sedation may need someone to accompany them home and should follow the medical team's instructions regarding driving and other activities.

Recovery After Endoscopy

Most patients can return to their usual activities according to the instructions provided by their healthcare team.

If a biopsy or another procedure was performed, additional instructions may be provided.

Patients should contact their doctor or seek medical attention if they develop severe abdominal pain, significant bleeding, persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, fever, or other concerning symptoms after the procedure.

Is Endoscopy Safe?

Endoscopy is a commonly performed diagnostic procedure and is generally considered safe when carried out by appropriately trained medical professionals.

As with any medical procedure, there can be potential risks. These may include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Reaction to sedation
• Injury to the digestive tract
• Perforation, which is uncommon

The potential risks vary depending on the specific procedure and whether additional treatment is performed.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Endoscopy

Endoscopy can serve both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Diagnostic Endoscopy

It can help doctors:

• Examine the digestive tract
• Identify inflammation or ulcers
• Investigate unexplained symptoms
• Identify abnormal tissue
• Obtain biopsy samples

Therapeutic Endoscopy

In selected situations, procedures may be performed through the endoscope, such as treatment of certain sources of bleeding or removal of selected lesions.

The suitability of therapeutic endoscopy depends on the patient's condition and the findings during the procedure.

When Should You Consult a Doctor?

Consider medical evaluation if you have persistent:

• Abdominal pain
• Heartburn or acid reflux
• Difficulty swallowing
• Indigestion
• Nausea or vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss
• Changes in bowel habits
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Unexplained anaemia

Your doctor can determine whether endoscopy or another diagnostic investigation is appropriate.

Emergency Symptoms Requiring Prompt Attention

Certain digestive symptoms can require urgent medical assessment.

Seek immediate medical attention for:

• Vomiting blood
• Black, tarry stools
• Severe abdominal pain
• Fainting or significant dizziness associated with possible bleeding
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Sudden difficulty swallowing or breathing

Do not delay emergency medical evaluation when serious symptoms occur.

Endoscopy at K & K Super Speciality Hospital

At K & K Super Speciality Hospital, Endoscopy services can assist in the evaluation and diagnosis of conditions affecting the upper digestive tract.

The procedure may help doctors investigate persistent digestive symptoms, identify abnormalities, obtain tissue samples when required, and perform selected therapeutic procedures.

Each endoscopy is planned according to the patient's symptoms, medical history, and clinical requirements.

Get the Right Evaluation for Digestive Problems

Persistent digestive symptoms should not be ignored. Early evaluation can help identify the underlying cause and determine an appropriate treatment plan.

If your doctor has recommended an Endoscopy, follow the preparation instructions carefully and discuss any medications or medical conditions with your healthcare team.

For Endoscopy services and gastrointestinal evaluation, contact K & K Super Speciality Hospital.