Endoscopy is a method used to examine parts of the gastrointestinal system, such as the stomach and intestines, by entering the body through the mouth. During this procedure, a thin, flexible tube containing a camera (endoscope) is used, allowing doctors to directly view the inside of the body. Endoscopy, used in the diagnosis and treatment of problems in the gastrointestinal system, is performed with the help of a flexible tube and a camera at its tip. This method allows a detailed examination of organs such as the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
Types of Endoscopy
- Upper Endoscopy (Gastroscopy): Examines the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
- Lower Endoscopy (Colonoscopy): Examines the colon; entered through the rectum.
- Enteroscopy: Especially examines the small intestine in detail.
- ERCP: Examines the bile and pancreatic ducts.
- Capsule Endoscopy: Examines the digestive system with a swallowable camera capsule.
When is Endoscopy Necessary?
Endoscopy is performed to diagnose symptoms such as abdominal pain, persistent nausea, difficulty swallowing, bleeding, or unexplained weight loss. It is also used for therapeutic purposes, such as the removal of polyps or dilation of narrow areas.
Risks of Endoscopy
Like any medical procedure, endoscopy carries some risks, although they are rare. These include bleeding, infection, and organ perforation. Sedation reactions are also possible but very rare.
Preparation for Endoscopy
Certain preparations are necessary for the endoscopy procedure to be performed safely and successfully. It is recommended that patients refrain from eating or drinking for at least 6 to 8 hours before the procedure, as the stomach and intestines need to be empty. This fasting period enhances image quality during endoscopy and helps reduce risks such as aspiration.
It is crucial for patients to inform their doctors about any regular medications they are taking. Particularly, if blood thinners, diabetes medications, or blood pressure medications are involved, the physician should evaluate whether these should be discontinued before the endoscopy. Patients with past allergic reactions should inform their doctor about any sensitivities to the anesthesia or medications used.
The preparation process for endoscopy may vary depending on the type of procedure. For example, if a colonoscopy is to be performed, a liquid diet the day before and bowel cleansing with special medications may be necessary. Following the doctor's instructions meticulously is critical for both patient comfort and the success of the procedure.
Who Cannot Undergo Endoscopy
While endoscopy is generally considered a safe method, it may be risky in certain circumstances. Individuals with advanced difficulty swallowing, esophageal strictures, or blockages may not be suitable candidates for endoscopy. Such anatomical obstacles can make it difficult for the endoscopic device to advance safely and increase the risk of complications.
Additionally, individuals with severe respiratory failure, heart disease, or bleeding tendencies require careful evaluation before the procedure. Complications during sedation or interventional endoscopy may be riskier in these groups. In pregnant women, endoscopy should only be performed when absolutely necessary and under medical supervision.
Patients with any chronic conditions should share this information with their doctors before the procedure. If necessary, additional precautions can be taken during endoscopy to ensure patient safety, or the procedure can be postponed.
How the Procedure is Conducted
The endoscopy procedure is performed in a sterile environment with a specialist doctor and experienced medical staff. Sedatives are generally administered to make the patient more comfortable. At the same time, a local anesthetic spray is applied to the throat area to reduce potential reflexes during the procedure. This significantly enhances patient comfort, particularly during upper endoscopy.
An endoscope, a thin, flexible device with a light and camera at the end, is advanced into the body through the mouth. This device allows the doctor to view the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum in detail. Images are transmitted to a monitor in real-time, and the doctor conducts the necessary examinations. If required, a biopsy (tissue sample) may be taken or minor interventions can be applied.
The patient's breathing is not affected during the endoscopy procedure, and pain is usually not experienced. After the procedure is completed, the patient is kept under observation for a while. Sedation can lead to short-term fatigue and drowsiness post-procedure, but most patients return to their normal daily activities within a few hours.
Why Endoscopy is Performed and For Which Symptoms It Is Necessary
Endoscopy is a safe and effective diagnostic method for obtaining detailed images of digestive system issues. A doctor may request an endoscopy for symptoms such as unexplained stomach pain, long-term reflux, frequent nausea, bleeding from the mouth, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained weight loss. Additionally, symptoms such as blood in the stool, chronic diarrhea, or iron deficiency anemia may necessitate an examination of the lower gastrointestinal system.
Aside from diagnosis, endoscopy is also used for certain treatment procedures. Procedures such as removing polyps in the stomach or intestines, dilating narrowed sections of the esophagus, stopping bleeding vessels, or removing small tumors can be performed through endoscopy. This allows both the diagnosis and treatment process to be completed in the same session.
Considerations Before and After Endoscopy
Before endoscopy, patients need to adhere to certain rules. Refraining from eating and drinking for at least 6 to 8 hours before the procedure is important. This preparation ensures that the stomach and intestines are empty, facilitating clearer images. If the patient takes medications regularly, it is essential to share this information with their doctor; particularly, the use of blood thinners around the time of endoscopy should be determined by the physician.
Post-endoscopy, short-term observation is generally sufficient. Patients administered sedation are allowed to rest until they are fully awake. Mild throat discomfort or stinging, gas pains, or abdominal bloating may occur after the procedure, and these usually resolve within a few hours. Driving is not recommended after endoscopy, and having a companion is advised.
Post-Endoscopy Nutrition Planning
It is recommended that nothing is consumed by mouth for a few hours following endoscopy. This is necessary for the effects of local anesthesia applied during the procedure to wear off and for the swallowing reflex to return to normal. Afterward, one should start eating light, low-fat, and easily digestible foods. Options include yogurt, bananas, boiled vegetables, and soup. Spicy, acidic, and hot foods should be avoided as they may irritate the throat.
Drinking plenty of fluids helps the body recover. Preference should be given to water, unsweetened herbal teas, or warm compotes. Alcohol, caffeinated beverages, and carbonated drinks are not recommended in the early days after the procedure. If a biopsy was taken during the endoscopy or a special intervention was performed, a specific diet plan may be recommended according to this. Adjusting the nutrition program according to the doctor's advice speeds up the recovery process.
How Often Should Endoscopy Be Performed
The frequency of endoscopy may vary based on a person's age, symptoms, and familial risk factors. For example, individuals with a family history of stomach or intestinal cancer may be recommended regular screening endoscopies. Additionally, individuals with chronic stomach conditions such as ulcers, gastritis, or reflux may benefit from endoscopies at specific intervals.
Lower endoscopy types, like colonoscopy, are particularly recommended for colorectal cancer screening in individuals over the age of 50. If there is a family history of colon cancer, this age can be adjusted to an earlier point. Since each person's situation is unique, the frequency of endoscopy should be determined by a doctor's recommendation. Unnecessary repetition of endoscopy can negatively affect patient comfort and lead to the unnecessary use of resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Will the Endoscopy Results Be Available?
The images obtained after the endoscopy procedure are usually evaluated by the doctor during the procedure and shared with the patient. However, laboratory analyses of biopsy samples taken during the procedure may take a few days. Therefore, definitive results are generally available within 2 to 5 days. This period may extend up to 10 days depending on the laboratory's workload.
What Are the Types of Endoscopy?
Endoscopy is divided into various types depending on the region it is applied to. Upper endoscopy (gastroscopy) examines the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Lower endoscopy (colonoscopy) evaluates the colon and rectum. Enteroscopy allows detailed examination of the small intestines. ERCP is used to image the bile and pancreatic ducts. Capsule endoscopy enables the visualization of the digestive system through a small camera capsule swallowed by the patient.
What Is Endoscopy?
Endoscopy is a medical procedure used to directly visualize the internal organs of the body. In this procedure, a flexible tube with a light and camera (endoscope) is inserted into the body through natural openings or small incisions. This allows doctors to examine internal organs in detail. Endoscopy can be used for diagnosing, treating, and in some cases, taking biopsies.
How Is Endoscopy Conducted?
The endoscopy procedure varies depending on the patient's condition and the type of procedure to be performed. Generally, the patient is kept fasting for a certain period before the procedure. During the procedure, a sedative or mild anesthesia may be applied. The endoscope is inserted into the body through natural openings like the mouth, nose, or anus and directed to the targeted area. The images obtained by the camera are transmitted to a monitor, allowing the doctor to make an assessment. If necessary, tissue samples may be taken or minor surgical interventions can be performed through the endoscope.
How Long Does Endoscopy Take?
The duration of the endoscopy procedure varies based on the type of endoscopy performed and the scope of the procedure. Generally, upper endoscopy takes 5 to 15 minutes, while procedures like colonoscopy may take 15 to 45 minutes. However, situations encountered during the procedure or additional interventions may prolong this duration.
What Should Be Considered After Endoscopy?
After endoscopy, the patient may need to be kept under observation for a while. If sedation was applied, the patient is allowed to rest until fully awake. Mild throat discomfort, gas pain, or bloating is normal post-procedure. These symptoms generally abate quickly. Additionally, it is recommended to refrain from taking anything by mouth for a few hours after the procedure. During this time, the numbness in the throat wears off, and the swallowing reflex returns to normal. Afterward, light and easily digestible foods can be started. Spicy, acidic, or very hot foods should be avoided. Moreover, consuming plenty of fluids is advised. The doctor may provide special dietary recommendations based on the patient's condition.
How Should Nutrition Be After Endoscopy?
Post-endoscopy nutrition can vary depending on the type of procedure and the patient's general condition. Typically, nothing should be taken orally for a few hours after the procedure. During this time, the numbness in the throat wears off, and the swallowing reflex returns to normal. Subsequently, light and easily digestible foods can be introduced. Spicy, acidic, or very hot foods should be avoided. Additionally, increased fluid intake is recommended. The doctor may provide special nutritional recommendations based on the patient's condition.