Is there any risk in Upper endoscopy procedure?

This Endoscopy procedure is a means to find out and explore one’s upper digestive system. It is done with the help of a miniature camera attached to the end of a long flexible tube. The tube is equipped with a small light and a tiny camera to help the doctor locate the issue, and at times treat it.

This method is used by gastroenterologists to diagnose, and at times treat, issues pertaining to the stomach, the beginning of the small intestine known as the duodenum, and the esophagus.

This procedure is performed under light sedation to keep the patient relaxed for its duration. The medical term for this procedure is esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD.

Many medical facilities usually perform this procedure at outpatient centers, we, at RMC, have in-house facilities to provide you with the best care possible.

Which disease are use to identify by endoscopy?

The main reasons why an upper endoscopy, or EGD, is performed is to help ascertain the reasons behind problems. These can include issues such as

• recurring abdominal pain,
• nausea,
• vomiting,
• or if the patient is having difficulties swallowing.

Over and above that this procedure is also used for diagnosis and treatment of issues, over and above investigation of symptoms. There may be other reasons why your doctor advises an upper endoscopy.

This is considered to be the most efficient way of finding out the reason behind any bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract.

It is considered to be vastly more efficient than X-rays to identify inflammation, ulcers and tumours of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.

Sometimes an endoscopy is combined with an ultrasound to help the doctors get a better picture of regions like the pancreas.

There are endoscopes that allow doctors to use something called the narrow band imaging which can help detect pre-cancerous conditions. This can be a life-saving procedure and help catch a cancer before it gets out of hand.

This Endoscopy procedure can also be used to get a biopsy sample of the polyps from the affected area.

This can help the doctor identify if it is a benign or malignant tissue. The biopsy may also be taken to identify the presence of ulcer causing bacteria.

This procedure can also be performed for a cytology test where a small brush is used to collect cells for analysis.

An upper endoscopy is used to treat a vast majority of ailments related to the upper gastrointestinal tract. This procedure helps in reached narrow, constricted areas of the esophagus, stomach or the duodenum, by dilating the region using a balloon or a stent.

It is also used to remove objects stuck in these regions while also helping treat bleeding ulcers, cancer or varices.

How Do I Prepare for an Upper Endoscopy?

It is important that your doctor have a complete and thorough idea of any pre-existing conditions that you might be suffering from.

It is important to inform them about any lung or heart conditions that you might have or if you are pregnant.

Make sure that you inform the doctor if you have ever been told to take antibiotics before dental or surgical procedures.

People with a history endocarditis, or those that have an artificial heart valve, or a rheumatic heart disease need to make this information clear to the doctor beforehand.

If you have any of the aforementioned issues you may be advised to take antibiotics before the endoscopy procedure.It is important to note that one should not eat or drink anything 8 hours before the surgery. An empty stomach ensures that the procedure goes off safely and effectively.

Medications for any preexisting conditions may be ingested with a sip of water. Your doctor will advise you to adjust the dosage of insulin for the day of the procedure if you are suffering from diabetes.

You can also bring the medication for your diabetes to the hospital to take it after the procedure. It is important that you do not drive yourself after this procedure as the sedation will make you groggy and impair your judgment.

 

What are the risks of an upper G.I. endoscopy?

If the upper endoscopy involves removing a piece of tissue there can be chances of bleeding.

Under these circumstances the doctors may advise blood transfusion. While most endoscopies that include an examination and biopsy are usually safe and do not have a risk for infection, this risk increases with additional procedures.

Most infections contracted through this procedure are minor and can be treated with antibiotics. If you are found to be at a higher risk for infection your doctor may give you an antibiotic course before the procedure.

A more serious risk of upper endoscopy is a tear in your esophagus or any other part of the upper digestive and intestinal tract. This would require hospitalization and surgery to correct it.

The possibilities for this complication, however, are very low, and have been found to be about 1 in every 2500-11000 procedures.

The risk for this procedure increases in case of additional procedures, like dilation, being introduced.

We, at RMC, make sure that you are completely aware of all the steps of the procedure and are thoroughly briefed about the safety measures you and the doctors will follow.

 

What happens after an upper endoscopy?

Once the Endoscopy procedure is completed you will be shifted to the recovery room and kept under observation for about 30 minutes.

You may feel a soreness in your throat, but this is only temporary and can be alleviated with lozenges. The report generated is sent to your primary physician and they will discuss the next step with you.

In case you feel any abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, continuous cough or fever, chills, or chest pain, within 72 hours of the procedure visit your doctor immediately.

Upper Endoscopy is one of the most widely performed procedures in the world. At Regency Medical Centre we not only have the finest equipment but also the best possible doctors and nursing staff to ensure you face no issues. We make it a matter of great pride to provide our patients with the best care and attention to help hasten their healing.