A Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (GI Endoscopy) is an investigative procedure, which allows a specialist to see inside the upper part of the digestive tract without the need for open surgery. This procedure can be performed to examine the oesophagus, stomach, duodenum or small intestine.

The examination is performed using an endoscope, which is a-flexible fiberoptic tube with a tiny TV camera at the end. The images captured by the camera are then projected onto a TV monitor, so that the Consultant conducting the procedure can have a clear view of the gastrointestinal tract and check for any abnormalities.

WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM GI ENDOSCOPY?

An upper GI endoscopy is typically performed to help investigate patients complaining of long-standing symptoms of indigestion, heartburn, upper abdominal pain or difficulty in swallowing. This procedure can also assist and guide a Consultant to treat a problem endoscopically (i.e. without the need to use an external incision).

HOW IS A GI ENDOSCOPY PERFORMED?

A GI endoscopy usually takes no more than 5-10 minutes to
undertake and is often carried out under local anaesthetic with sedation, which means that a patient will be pain-free and very drowsy (but not fully asleep) during their procedure.

Once the patient is sedated a plastic mouthpiece is placed between the teeth to keep the mouth slightly open, allowing a Consultant to gently pass an endoscope through the mouth and into the upper digestive tract.

The endoscope used for this type of procedure is thinner than an index finger and air is put in to the stomach, so that a clearer view can be obtained.

If any concerns are revealed during an endoscopy, a skilled consultant will then be able to take biopsies (tissue samples), photographs or make a video of the interior of the digestive tract for further examination.

This procedure can also be performed in conjunction with the administration of specialist treatments, such as thermal coagulation to remove small polyps or abnormal blood vessels.

WHAT IS THE RECOVERY LIKE?

If sedation is used during a GI endoscopy, then patients are usually transferred into a recovery area after their procedure, where nursing staff will closely monitor their condition and blood pressure for 1-2 hours. Once fully awake patients are given a drink and a light diet and then discharged home. Some patients experience a sore throat for a few days after their procedure and some complain of wind or bloating because of the air that is pumped into their stomach during the procedure. These symptoms can be relieved with mild painkillers until they naturally disappear.

ARE THERE ANY RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH GI ENDOSCOPY?

All endoscopic procedures involve an element of risk from developing complications. Risks such as bleeding, bruising or perforation of the digestive tract, infection, nausea and vomiting will be discussed openly at consultation with Mr Agwunobi, as well as his scrupulous efforts to manage and minimise these risks to their lowest possible potential.

Although endoscopy procedures are regularly performed without any complications, all treatments, no mater how expertly or carefully they are performed carry a risk and the importance of a full evaluation and consultation with Mr Agwunobi to discuss your understanding and expectations in relation to these risks, cannot be over emphasised.

Are You Ready For the Next Step?

HOW DO I FIND OUT IF I AM A SUITABLE CANDIDATE FOR GI ENDOSCOPY?

If you wish to find out if you are a suitable candidate for a GI endoscopy, Mr Agwunobi will carry out a full evaluation of your individual needs and circumstances and provide you with a comprehensive verbal and written explanation of any recommended treatment .

Mr Agwunobi understands the importance of the procedure you are contemplating and throughout your consultation you will be encouraged to ask as many questions as you wish and to take your time in making a decision to proceed with any treatment or not.

FIND OUT MORE

If you would like to find out more about GI endoscopy and discover if you are a suitable candidate for this procedure, please telephone 0161 432 2061, email or use the Contact form to organise a consultation appointment.