- What is an Endoscopy Examination?
Endoscopy is the act of observing the digestive tract with an endoscope, which is a special tool in the form of a thin tube with a light and a camera at the end to see the internal condition of certain organs.
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is intended to examine the condition of the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the duodenum, while in colonoscopy what is examined is the large intestine.
- What are the indications for endoscopy?
Endoscopy is indicated for patients with digestive tract disorders who have several complaints (also known as alarm symptoms ).
A. Gastroscopy Alarm symptoms :
- Age over 60 years
- Having a family (parents or siblings) with a history of gastrointestinal cancer
- Sudden weight loss (>5% of body weight within 6-12 months)
- Lumps around the abdomen that can be palpated or lymphadenopathy
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Pain when swallowing (odynophagia)
- Continuous vomiting
- Unexplained anemia
B. Colonoscopy Alarm symptoms:
- Age > 50 years
- Sudden weight loss
- Have a family history of colon cancer
- Unexplained anemia
- Anal bleeding
- What are the preparations for endoscopy?
In order to see well the condition of the digestive tract, it must be ensured that the digestive tract is clean. In general, doctors will ask the patient to fast for 6-8 hours and take laxatives so that the digestive tract is clean from food and feces residue.
- How is Endoscopy done?
Endoscopy is performed by inserting an endoscope into the digestive tract, either the upper digestive tract (through the mouth) or the lower digestive tract (through the rectum).
The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia according to the patient's condition.
- What to do after endoscopy?
After the endoscopy is completed, the patient will rest for several hours until the sedative and anesthetic effects wear off. After the anesthetic effect wears off, the patient is allowed to go home but must be accompanied by family or friends.
- What are the advantages of conventional endoscopes with capsule endoscopes?
Conventional endoscopes, although not as comfortable as capsule endoscopes, have several advantages:
- Image resolution is usually sharper (depending on device specifications)
- Can immediately perform interventions such as stopping bleeding, taking a biopsy, or removing a lump/tumor
The article was written by Dr. dr. Nella Suhuyanly, Sp.PD - KGEH, FINASIM (Internal Medicine Specialist - Gastro Entero Hepatology Consultant at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).