People who have had gastrointestinal issues are highly likely to be acquainted with gastroscopy. Also known as upper endoscopy, this medical procedure that allows doctors to examine the upper digestive tract and detect and treat various gastrointestinal conditions. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a detailed understanding of how gastroscopy in Singapore (https://alpinesurgical.sg/procedure/gastroscopy/) works, when it is necessary, what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, as well as the potential risks and complications involved.
How does gastroscopy work?
Gastroscopy or upper endoscopy involves the use of a flexible, thin tube called an endoscope. The endoscope is equipped with a light and a camera that transmits real-time images to a monitor, enabling the doctor to visualize the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine. The procedure is typically performed while the patient is under sedation to ensure comfort and relaxation.
During the examination, the doctor inserts the endoscope carefully through the mouth, passing the throat, and into the digestive tract. The doctor can then observe the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, identify any abnormalities or signs of disease, and even perform certain medical interventions if necessary.
When is gastroscopy necessary?
Gastroscopy is recommended for various reasons. It is commonly used to investigate symptoms such as persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or abdominal pain. It is also employed to screen for conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, Barrett's esophagus, or to evaluate the effectiveness of previous treatments. Upper endoscopy is particularly useful in detecting early signs of esophageal, gastric, or duodenal cancers.
In addition, upper endoscopy is often performed for therapeutic purposes. It allows the doctor to remove polyps, take tissue samples for biopsy, dilate strictures or narrowings, cauterize bleeding vessels, or insert stents to open blocked passages. The decision to undergo an upper endoscopy is made based on the patient's symptoms, medical history, and the doctor's clinical judgment. It is always essential to consult with a gastroenterologist to determine if the procedure is necessary in your specific case.
How should I prepare for a gastroscopy?
Proper preparation is crucial to ensure a successful gastroscopy procedure. Typically, you will be asked to avoid eating or drinking anything for a specified period of time before the procedure. This is necessary to ensure that the stomach is empty, which allows for better visualization during the examination.
You may also be required to temporarily stop taking certain medications, especially blood thinners or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as they can increase the risk of bleeding during the procedure. It is important to inform your doctor about any medical conditions, allergies, or medications you are currently taking to ensure a safe and effective procedure. On the day of the upper endoscopy, you will need someone to accompany you as the sedation used during the procedure can temporarily impair your ability to drive or make decisions.
What should I expect during a gastroscopy procedure in Singapore?
An upper endoscopy procedure typically takes around 15 to 30 minutes. Before the examination begins, you will be given a sedative through an intravenous line to help you relax and minimize discomfort. Your vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels, will be carefully monitored to ensure that the procedure is 100% safe.
Once the sedation takes effect, the doctor will gently insert the endoscope through your mouth and guide it down into your digestive tract. You may experience a sensation of pressure or fullness, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated due to the sedation. The doctor will carefully examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. They will capture images and may take tissue samples for further analysis.
If any abnormalities, such as polyps or ulcers, are detected during the examination, the doctor may choose to perform therapeutic interventions immediately. These may include removing polyps, obtaining biopsies, or treating bleeding vessels. The doctor will explain the findings and any necessary follow-up procedures or treatments once the examination is complete.
What are the possible risks and complications that I should be aware of?
While gastroscopy is considered a safe procedure, it does carry some risks and potential complications. These are relatively rare but include adverse reactions to sedation, bleeding, infection, perforation or puncture of the gastrointestinal tract, or aspiration of stomach contents into the lungs. However, the benefits of upper endoscopy in diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal conditions generally outweigh the risks, so there should be no reason to delay or avoid getting the procedure!
To minimize the chances of complications, you should follow your doctor's instructions regarding preparation and inform them about any medical conditions or medications you are taking. In addition, make sure to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your doctor before undergoing the procedure.
What are the recovery and aftercare guidelines that I should follow?
After the gastroscopy procedure, you will be monitored in a recovery area until the sedation wears off. It is normal to experience some mild throat discomfort, bloating, or gas for a short period afterward. These symptoms typically resolve within a few hours.
You may be advised to refrain from eating or drinking for a short period following the procedure to allow your throat to recover. Your doctor will provide specific instructions regarding diet, medication use, and any necessary restrictions. It is essential to follow these instructions carefully to optimize healing and minimize any potential complications. If biopsies were taken during the procedure, it may take a few days to receive the results. Subsequently, full recovery may take a day or two.
Are there any alternatives to gastroscopy?
While upper endoscopy is a valuable diagnostic tool, there are alternative procedures available as well:
- Barium swallow: This procedure involves drinking a liquid containing barium, which coats the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. X-rays are then taken to visualize the digestive tract.
- Capsule endoscopy: In this procedure, you swallow a small capsule containing a camera that takes images as it passes through your digestive tract. The images are transmitted wirelessly to a recorder worn on your body and later reviewed by a doctor.
It should be noted that while alternative diagnostic procedures may be helpful in certain cases, they may not provide the same level of detail and therapeutic options as gastroscopy. Consult with a gastroenterologist to determine the most appropriate diagnostic procedure for your specific needs.
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Alpine Surgical Practice
3 Mount Elizabeth #17-16
Singapore 228510
+65 6589 8927
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