Know about Endoscopy Procedure

Endoscopy is a medical procedure that involves the use of a very long, thin, and supple instrument known as an endoscope to examine the inner parts of the digestive system. The instrument’s diameter is less than ½ an inch. In upper endoscopies, the endoscope is normally inserted through the mouth to examine the upper part of the digestive system. In lower endoscopies, the colon is examined by inserting the endoscope into the digestive system through the anus. An endoscopy is used to detect the probable cause of various conditions including bloating, inflammation, vomiting, nausea, pain, ulcers, and even tumors. Endoscopes can also be used to eliminate growth, treat bleeding, and take small tissue samples.

Upper Endoscopy
You should not eat eight hours before an endoscopy because the procedure is only effective on an empty stomach. An endoscopy medical professional will administer a pain reliever and a sedative through an IV into your vain a few minutes before the procedure. A numbing agent will also be sprayed into your mouth to numb your throat. Thereafter, a mouthpiece will be placed inside your mouth and then the endoscopy specialist will ask you to lie on your left side. The procedure will take approximately 20 minutes and you will be able to breathe well and stay awake throughout the procedure.

Lower Endoscopy
Patients in a lower endoscopy will have to go through an enema the day before the procedure. This means that the patient will have to take a break from work at least a day before the procedure. Patients are often given some dietary recommendations that they are required to follow two days before an endoscopy. A painkiller and a sedative are usually given to the patient through an IV moments before the procedure. The patient is then asked to lie down as the endoscope is inserted via the anus and into the colon. This is where the test takes place. Lower endoscopy usually takes about 30 minutes. Although patients can drink or eat immediately after the procedure, doctors often recommend rest for a few hours before eating or drinking anything.

Endoscopy is a very simple procedure with minimal risks. The only time a patient cannot go through endoscopy is when he is deemed unfit for anesthesia. According to the American Cancer Society, the procedure has low mortality and morbidity rates and is considered safe for patients in all age groups. A defunct endoscope can be repaired by an endoscope repair technician.