Camera tests to examine the food pipe, stomach and intestines, diagnose problems such as ulcers, bleeding and polyps, and treat many of them in the same sitting.
Overview
An upper GI endoscopy uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera, passed through the mouth, to examine the food pipe (oesophagus), stomach and first part of the small intestine. A colonoscopy examines the large intestine (colon) through the back passage.
Besides diagnosis, both procedures allow the doctor to take small tissue samples (biopsies), remove polyps, stop bleeding and stretch narrowed areas, often avoiding surgery.
Who needs this treatment?
- Persistent acidity, heartburn, indigestion or difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting blood or passing black or bloody stools
- Unexplained weight loss or anaemia
- Change in bowel habits, chronic diarrhoea or constipation
- Screening for colon cancer and polyps
Benefits
- Direct view of the digestive tract for an accurate diagnosis
- Biopsies and treatment in the same procedure
- No surgical cuts; most patients go home the same day
How it is done
Before the procedure
For upper endoscopy, do not eat or drink for about six hours. For colonoscopy, you will be given a bowel-cleansing preparation the day before and a clear-liquid diet. Tell the doctor about blood thinners and diabetes medicines.
During the procedure
A throat spray and/or sedation is given to keep you comfortable. The procedure usually takes 10 to 30 minutes.
After the procedure
You rest until the sedation wears off. Mild bloating may occur. Arrange for someone to take you home if you were sedated.
Recovery and aftercare
Most people resume normal activities the next day.
- Do not drive or make important decisions on the day you receive sedation
- Report severe abdominal pain, fever or significant bleeding after the procedure
Frequently asked questions
Most patients feel only mild discomfort. Sedation is available to make the procedure more comfortable.
Biopsy results usually take a few working days. Your doctor will explain the findings at your follow-up visit.
This page gives general information. Whether a treatment is right for you, and what it involves, depends on your condition; your doctor will explain the options after examining you.