In Singapore, endoscopy has become a widely utilized and effective medical procedure for diagnosing and treating various gastrointestinal (GI) conditions. As a minimally invasive method, endoscopy allows doctors to examine internal organs and tissues in real-time, providing a clear and accurate diagnosis without the need for major surgery. If you’ve been recommended an endoscopy or are simply curious about the procedure, this guide will help you understand what it involves and why it’s so important in modern healthcare.
What is Endoscopy?
Endoscopy is a medical procedure where a doctor uses an endoscope, a flexible tube with a light and camera attached, to view the inside of your body. It is most commonly used to examine the digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. The endoscope is inserted through a natural opening, such as the mouth or rectum, depending on the type of endoscopy. It can help to detect Stomach or Colorectal Cancer.
In addition to diagnostic purposes, endoscopy can also be used to treat certain conditions. For instance, small tools can be passed through the endoscope to remove polyps, take tissue samples (biopsies), or even stop bleeding in the GI tract.
Types of Endoscopy Performed in Singapore
There are several types of endoscopic procedures available in Singapore, each designed to examine specific areas of the body:
Gastroscopy: This procedure focuses on the upper GI tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of the small intestine (duodenum). It is often used to investigate symptoms like persistent heartburn, stomach pain, or unexplained nausea.
Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy examines the large intestine (colon) and is commonly recommended for individuals over the age of 50 as a screening for colorectal cancer. It can also detect issues such as inflammation, polyps, or diverticular disease.
Why You Might Need an Endoscopy
Endoscopy is usually recommended by a doctor when patients present symptoms that require a closer look inside the digestive system. Some of the common reasons for undergoing an endoscopy include:
Persistent abdominal pain
Unexplained weight loss
Chronic heartburn or acid reflux (GERD)
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Persistent nausea or vomiting
Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
Screening for colorectal cancer (colonoscopy)
In some cases, endoscopy is also used as a preventative measure for individuals at higher risk of certain conditions, such as those with a family history of colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
What to Expect During an Endoscopy
Endoscopy is a relatively simple and safe procedure. Here’s what you can expect if you’re scheduled for one:
Preparation: Depending on the type of endoscopy, you may be asked to fast for several hours beforehand. For a colonoscopy, you will also need to take a bowel-cleansing solution the day before to clear out your intestines.
Sedation: Most endoscopies are performed under sedation to ensure patient comfort.
The Procedure: The endoscope is gently inserted through the mouth or rectum, and the doctor will carefully examine the relevant areas. In most cases, the procedure lasts between 15 to 45 minutes.
Recovery: After the procedure, you’ll be monitored for a short period while the sedative wears off. It’s recommended to have someone accompany you, as you may feel groggy afterward. Most patients can resume normal activities within 24 hours.
Benefits of Endoscopy
Endoscopy offers several key advantages, making it a preferred diagnostic and therapeutic option for many conditions:
Minimally Invasive: Unlike surgery, endoscopy requires no large incisions, resulting in a faster recovery time and less post-procedure discomfort.
Accurate Diagnosis: The high-definition cameras on modern endoscopes provide doctors with a clear, real-time view of the GI tract, allowing for a precise diagnosis.
Early Detection: Endoscopy is highly effective in detecting early signs of cancer, ulcers, and other conditions, allowing for timely treatment.
Versatile: In addition to diagnosing issues, endoscopy can also treat certain conditions, such as removing polyps or stopping bleeding without the need for more invasive surgery.
Is Endoscopy Safe?
Endoscopy is generally a safe and low-risk procedure. Complications are rare but can include bleeding, infection, or perforation of the organ being examined. These risks are higher in therapeutic procedures, such as polyp removal, but remain uncommon. Your doctor will discuss any potential risks with you before the procedure to ensure you’re fully informed.
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