Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Gastrointestinal endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows doctors to visualize and examine the gastrointestinal (GI) tract using an endoscope—a long, flexible tube with a light and camera attached to it.

What is Endoscopy ?

Enteroscopy is used to examine the small intestine, which is typically not easily accessible through other endoscopic procedures. It can be performed using different methods, including balloon-assisted enteroscopy and double-balloon enteroscopy, allowing the endoscope to reach deeper into the small intestine. Enteroscopy helps diagnose and treat conditions like bleeding, inflammation, tumors, and polyps in the small bowel.

During an endoscopic procedure, the endoscope is inserted through a natural body opening (e.g., mouth, anus) or small incisions. The images obtained by the camera allow the doctor to visualize and evaluate the internal structures, take biopsies, remove abnormal tissue, or perform other necessary interventions.

Endoscopy is generally considered a safe procedure, but it does carry some risks, such as bleeding, infection, perforation, or adverse reactions to anesthesia or sedation. The benefits and risks of endoscopy will be discussed with you by your healthcare provider before the procedure.

Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD)

This procedure examines the upper part of the GI tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).

It is commonly used to investigate symptoms like persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, and to screen for conditions like ulcers, inflammation, tumors, and precancerous changes.