
What is Gastroscopy?
Gastroscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the internal structure of the stomach and esophagus. The endoscope, which is a flexible tube, is passed through the mouth to reach these areas. Equipped with a camera and light source, the endoscope allows the doctor to observe the inside of the stomach and esophagus, take a biopsy and diagnose potential problems. It is used to diagnose and treat digestive system problems such as stomach ulcers, reflux disease, blockages, or cancer. It can also be applied to determine the causes of disturbing symptoms.
Why is Gastroscopy Performed?
Gastroscopy is performed to evaluate the cause and severity of digestive problems such as stomach pain, indigestion, bloating, and heartburn. These symptoms are used to diagnose potential underlying diseases. In patients with chronic acid reflux, it may be done to evaluate the reflux and damage of stomach contents into the esophagus. This can be helpful in diagnosing problems such as stomach ulcers, inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis), and Barrett's esophagus.
It is used to detect and examine ulcers occurring in the stomach or duodenum. The causes of ulcers can be investigated and treatment methods can be determined. It may be performed to evaluate upper digestive system bleeding. It may be necessary to find the cause of the bleeding and stop the bleeding if necessary. It is used to detect tumors in organs such as the stomach or esophagus. This can be done for cancer screening and early detection purposes.
In some cases, treatment can also be performed with gastroscopy. For example, it can be used to remove or treat polyps or small stomach ulcers without requiring surgical intervention. It can be performed to evaluate the treatment results and regular follow-up, especially for people with stomach or esophagus diseases. Gastroscopy is performed by gastroenterologists or digestive system specialists. It generally causes minimal discomfort and pain for patients and is an important tool in the diagnostic and treatment process.
How is Gastroscopy Done?
Before gastroscopy, the patient must come on an empty stomach. Generally, at least 6 hours of fasting is required before performing the procedure. If your doctor gives special instructions, it is important that you follow those instructions. You will be given a patient gown to wear during the operation, and you may need to leave your personal belongings in a safe place.
The procedure is usually performed with local anesthesia and light sedation (relaxing). Sedation is a calming medicine and makes you relax. It is given by the anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist. The endoscope is passed through your mouth or nostril and slowly advanced into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
There is a camera inside the endoscope and your doctor can examine the internal organs through this camera. He or she may take a biopsy or perform treatment if needed. When the gastroscopy procedure is completed, the endoscope is removed and you may be observed for a while. You can return home or to work after the sedation wears off. However, it is important that you do not drive or drink due to sedation.
The gastroscopy procedure usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, and time may vary depending on your doctor's diagnostic and treatment goals. After the procedure, your doctor will inform you of the results and, if necessary, follow-up treatment or other recommendations. Gastroscopy is an important research method for the diagnosis and treatment of stomach disorders. You can get detailed information about the procedure by contacting us before any medical procedure.
Gastroscopy Frequently Asked Questions About
Gastroscopy and endoscopy are similar imaging methods used to examine internal organs. Gastroscopy examines the stomach and esophagus, while endoscopy is a more general term and can be used to visually observe different parts of the body. Both are performed with an endoscope, which is a thin tube.
Gastroscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the inside of the stomach and esophagus. It is usually done under local anesthesia, and most patients experience mild discomfort but no pain. The relaxing effect is provided by medications and the procedure is usually completed in a short time.
Anesthesia is usually applied during the gastroscopy procedure. Sedation or anesthesia is usually applied to ensure that patients are comfortable and do not feel pain. In this way, patients do not lose consciousness, but are in a relaxed state and endoscopy is performed more comfortably and safely. Napping increases the patient's comfort and prevents discomfort during the procedure.
It usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Time may vary depending on patient comfort and the amount of examination required. During the procedure, a flexible tube (endoscope) is passed into the mouth or nose and there is a camera inside this tube. With this camera, the doctor can observe the stomach and esophagus and detect possible problems.
It is applied to patients with symptoms such as stomach pain, reflux, bleeding or stomach disorders. It is also used to confirm medical diagnoses and create treatment plans.