Endoscopy of the stomach and upper gastrointestinal tract (EGD of the stomach, or gastroscopy) is most often performed to determine the causes of heartburn and refers to outpatient procedures. With the help of a thin optical device with a tip equipped with a light source and a video camera, the esophagus is examined, i.e. the upper alimentary tract, as well as the stomach and body of the duodenum. Endoscopic examination of the stomach allows you to perform other procedures, including tissue biopsy.
Indications for conduction
This procedure is used in emergency situations in hospitals or emergency departments to detect and treat bleeding caused by an ulcer or other causes in time.
Gastric endoscopy is used in cases of:
- vague pain in the peritoneum and abdomen;
- vomiting or nausea;
- bleeding in the stomach;
- difficulty swallowing.
The procedure is effective enough to identify neoplasms and for researchconditions of the internal walls of the digestive tract. It is more accurate than an x-ray.
Preparing for the event
Endoscopy is an examination in which the patient is required to tell the doctor about any medications or supplements they are currently taking.
The patient should inform the doctor about existing he alth problems or unusual conditions. If necessary, your doctor will recommend that you stop taking these medications temporarily.
Gastric endoscopy is performed on an empty stomach, in which there should be no food or water. The patient abstains from fluid intake and does not eat for 6 hours before the procedure.
If the patient has diabetes and cannot do without insulin, on the day of the examination, he needs to adjust the dose of the drug, after consulting with the endocrinologist.
Gastric endoscopy is performed after taking sedatives, so the patient should not drive on this day.
Performing procedure
Endoscopy is performed by an experienced doctor. Beforehand, the patient puts on a hospital gown and removes glasses and dentures, if any.
The back of the patient's pharynx is treated with a local anesthetic.
Intravenous sedation and pain medication to make him feel sleepy and relaxed.
Place a mouthpiece in the patient's mouth that does not interfere with breathing.
During the procedure, the patientlies on its side, and an endoscope is inserted into its mouth, which enters the stomach through the esophagus. The inspection lasts no more than 30 minutes.
The doctor sometimes discusses the procedure with the patient, and then sends him to the doctor.
In cases where the results of the study and biopsy indicate the need for emergency medical care, all necessary measures are taken, as notified to the attending physician and the patient.
When to see a doctor?
If a patient experiences acute pain in the throat or abdomen, chest pain, persistent cough, vomiting or chills after an endoscopy, they should seek immediate medical attention.
