What is Endoscopy?
Endoscopy is a procedure for examining the internal tissues of the body. It involves the use of a device known as an endoscope. An endoscope is a flexible, thin tube that has a camera and a light attached at the end.
The procedure provides clear images of the internal organs on the monitor. It assists in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of various diseases.
At HCG, we employ endoscopy as one of the cancer diagnostic methods for different types of cancer. Depending on the case, it may be used for the examination of internal organs or to collect biopsy samples.
Specialists at HCG use endoscopy to perform minor surgeries as well. During these surgeries, an endoscope is sent along with specialized surgical tools, which excise the abnormal tissue or tumor, particularly in early-stage cancers.
How Does Endoscopy Work?
When the clinicians insert the endoscope through small incisions or natural openings, the real-time images are transmitted onto the monitor, allowing the doctor to evaluate the internal structures.
Advanced endoscopic instruments may also have surgical tools that will enable the doctors to perform biopsies or remove abnormal growths.
Modern endoscopes use digital imaging or optical fiber technology, thereby making the procedure less invasive and safer.
Types of Endoscopy and Their Uses
The following are the different types of endoscopy:
Arthroscopy:It is used to examine the joints, and an orthopedic surgeon usually performs the procedure.
Bronchoscopy:This type of endoscopy is used to visualize the lungs by inserting an endoscope through the mouth or nose. Bronchoscopy helps in diagnosing various respiratory conditions, including cancer.
Colonoscopy:During this procedure, the doctor inserts the endoscope through the anus. It is usually used to screen for cancer or to detect polyps.
Cystoscopy:It is used to detect diseases of the urinary tract. In this procedure, the endoscope is inserted into the urethra and guided to the bladder. This procedure is also used for bladder cancer diagnosis through a biopsy.
Hysteroscopy:This procedure is done to examine the uterus. The endoscope is inserted into the vagina and guided to the uterus. A hysteroscopy may be recommended for the detection and diagnosis of endometrial cancer.
Laryngoscopy:During laryngoscopy, the doctor examines the larynx, or the voice box. The otolaryngologists usually perform the procedure.
Sigmoidoscopy: This procedure is performed to examine the rectum and the sigmoid colon for cancer screening or for other diseases related to the colon.
Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy:This procedure is performed to examine the esophagus and the organs of the upper gastrointestinal tract, such as the stomach. Gastroenterologists insert the endoscope through the mouth and guide it into the digestive tract to examine various organs along the gastrointestinal tract.
Laparoscopy:Laparoscopy is a form of endoscopy. During laparoscopy, tiny incisions are made in the abdomen or pelvic region to insert the laparoscope, which carries a light source and a camera. Surgical tools are inserted through other incisions.
At HCG, our specialists use laparoscopy for cancer diagnosis and treatment of certain early-stage GI and gynecological cancers.
How to Prepare for Endoscopy?
Preparation for an endoscopy depends on the type of procedure. Patients are generally advised not to eat or drink for a few hours before the procedure to ensure a clear view of the internal organs. Patients may be prescribed a bowel-cleansing solution before a colonoscopy to empty the intestines.
The patients need to inform the clinicians about current medical conditions, medications, particularly diabetes or blood thinners, and allergies. Patients should wear comfortable clothing. The procedure may involve the use of sedatives that may cause drowsiness for a few hours. Thus, they should arrange for someone to accompany.
What To Expect During And After An Endoscopy?
During the Endoscopy
The patients are administered sedatives or local anesthetics to make them comfortable. The clinician inserts the endoscope through the nose, mouth, urethra, or small incision, depending upon the type of endoscopy. The patients may experience bloating, mild pressure, or a gagging sensation.
However, the procedure is usually painless. Real-time images are displayed on the monitor, which allows the doctor to evaluate the internal organs. Generally, the procedure takes about 15 to 45 minutes and can be done as an outpatient procedure.
After the Endoscopy
The patients are monitored for some time after an endoscopy. The side effects, such as gas, bloating, cramping, and sore throat, are mild and usually resolve within a few hours. The patients are advised not to drive or operate machines for the rest of the day as sedatives may hamper their ability to perform such tasks.
The patients may resume eating and drinking according to the instructions of their doctors. Serious complications are rare in endoscopy. However, patients should immediately report to the doctor if they experience bleeding, severe pain, or fever.
Where to Get an Endoscopy Near You?
Endoscopy procedures are common in most hospitals, multispecialty clinics, and diagnostic centers. Patients may either consult with their primary care doctors for a referral to undergo an endoscopy. They may also search online for hospitals and clinics providing endoscopy services.
Patients should choose the facilities for endoscopy that have experienced endoscopy professionals and state-of-the-art equipment. It is important to verify the credentials of the doctor and their expertise for an endoscopy check and the standards followed at the center. Patients should visit the clinic for the endoscopy appointment.
Conclusion
Endoscopy is the procedure that involves the examination of internal organs with the help of an endoscopy scope. Different types of endoscopy procedure are arthroscopy, laparoscopy, hysteroscopy, bronchoscopy, cystoscopy, and colonoscopy. The procedure is performed under mild sedation. Complications are mild and resolve of their own. Serious complications are rare.
