Upper GI Scopey
An upper gastrointestinal scopey is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the upper part of the digestive tract.
Indication
- Investigation of Symptoms: Such as difficulty swallowing, painful swallowing, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Evaluation of Anemia: When anemia is suspected to be due to gastrointestinal bleeding or malabsorption.
- Diagnosis of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Assessment of Ulcers: To identify the presence, location, and extent of peptic ulcers and rule out malignancy.
- Detection of Tumors: To identify and biopsy suspected tumors or abnormal growths in the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum.
- Investigation of Abnormal Imaging: To further evaluate abnormal findings from imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans.
- Surveillance of Known Conditions: To monitor conditions like esophageal varices in patients with liver disease or Barrett’s esophagus.
- Therapeutic Interventions: Such as removing polyps, dilating strictures, or controlling bleeding through endoscopic techniques.
PROCEDURE
Preparation: The patient is typically asked to fast for several hours before the procedure to ensure the stomach is empty. A detailed medical history is reviewed, and consent is obtained.
Sedation: The patient is given a sedative or anesthesia to ensure comfort and minimize discomfort during the procedure. This can be administered orally or intravenously.
Insertion: The endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera and light at the tip, is gently inserted through the mouth and advanced down the esophagus.
Examination: The endoscope is carefully maneuvered through the esophagus, into the stomach, and then into the duodenum. A camera transmits images to a monitor, allowing the physician to inspect the mucosal lining for abnormalities.
Biopsy and Interventions: If necessary, biopsy forceps can be passed through the endoscope to obtain tissue samples for further analysis.
Completion: Once the examination and any interventions are complete, the endoscope is carefully withdrawn. The patient is monitored as the sedation wears off.
Recovery: The patient may experience a sore throat or mild discomfort after the procedure. A patient observed until the sedation effects diminish before being discharged.
Post-procedure Care: Patients are usually advised to avoid eating or drinking until they fully recover from sedation. Results from biopsies or findings are discussed with the patient during a follow-up visit. The procedure generally lasts between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case and any additional interventions performed.
Lower GI Scopey [Colonoscopy]:
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the inside of the colon (large intestine) and rectum.
INDICATION
- Screening for Colorectal Cancer: To detect early signs of cancer in individuals at average risk or with a family history of colorectal cancer.
- Investigating Symptoms: To diagnose the cause of symptoms such as unexplained abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic diarrhea, or changes in bowel habits.
- Monitoring Inflammatory Bowel Disease: To assess conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis and monitor disease progression or treatment response.
- Detecting and Removing Polyps: To identify and remove polyps, which can potentially become cancerous if left untreated.
- Assessing Abnormal Imaging Results: To follow up on findings from other imaging tests, like a CT scan, that suggest abnormalities in the colon.
- Post-Surgical Evaluation: To examine the colon after surgery or other treatments for colon-related conditions.
PROCEDURE
Preparation:
Diet: Typically, you’ll need to follow a special diet and avoid certain foods for a few days before the procedure.
Bowel Cleanout: You’ll take a laxative or undergo an enema to clear the colon of stool, which is crucial for a clear view during the procedure.
Procedure:
Insertion: The doctor will gently insert a flexible, tube-like instrument called a colonoscope into your rectum and advance it into the colon.
Inspection: The colonoscope has a camera that sends images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to examine the colon lining. The doctor may also take biopsies or remove polyps if needed.
Completion:
The colonoscope is slowly withdrawn, and the procedure is completed.
Recovery:
Patient will be monitored in a recovery area until the sedation wears off. It’s common to feel some bloating or cramping afterward.
POST-PROCEDURE
Results: The doctor will discuss preliminary findings with you. If biopsies were taken, results might take a few days to return.
Aftercare: You can usually resume normal activities after a few hours, but you might need someone to drive you home due to the sedation.
