Endoscopy and Colonoscopy in Siliguri
Colonoscopy and upper endoscopy are two procedures performed frequently by gastroenterologists to view and examine various portions of your digestive tract. Colonoscopies inspect the large intestine (colon and rectum) while upper endoscopies observe the esophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine.
Colonoscopies and upper endoscopies may be utilized to:
- Screen for Cancers
- Investigate Symptoms
- Diagnose Gastrointestinal Diseases and Disorders
- Control Bleeding
- Extract Polyps, Foreign Objects, Tissue Samples for Biopsy, etc.
Colonoscopy
At age 50, a serious conversation takes place between the patient and their gastroenterologist. This milestone marks the age that those at average risk for colorectal cancer should consider screening, and a good way to do so is via a colonoscopy. Symptomatic or not, following this rule of thumb—getting a colonoscopy at age 50—provides the best chances for early (colorectal cancer) detection or, ideally, for preventing cancerous developments, altogether.
f you share any of these risks, ask your doctor about appropriate cautionary next steps. Bloody stool, chronic abdominal pain, and unintended weight loss are also grounds to contact your gastroenterologist to discuss whether a colonoscopy is warranted.
Colonoscopy Procedure:
- A colonoscopy is a relatively quick outpatient procedure; it takes just 15 to 20 minutes to complete but can vary.
- The procedure entails the use of a colonoscope—a small tube with a light and camera attached—which enters the body via the rectum and is advanced through to the colon.
- The patient routinely receives sedation/anesthesia to prevent discomfort during the procedure.
- The colonoscope’s camera projects images onto a viewing screen in the surgical area so that your doctor can locate and identify any abnormal growths for removal.
- About 95% of cancerous and larger precancerous polyps can be detected with a colonoscopy.
Endoscopy
While the main purpose of a colonoscopy is to determine colon health, an upper endoscopy provides visibility into the upper portion of your digestive system.
The range of coverage provided by an upper endoscopy includes:
Esophagus
Stomach
Beginning of the small intestine (duodenum)
Your doctor may suggest an upper endoscopy to investigate symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal tenderness, difficulty swallowing, or gastrointestinal bleeding. The findings of an upper endoscopy often include the keys to diagnosing and treating whatever it is that’s causing a patient’s digestive discomfort.
Procedure:
- Upper endoscopy patients are deeply sedated throughout, so there is no physical discomfort during the procedure.
- A gastroscope is an optical instrument similar to the aforementioned colonoscope, comprised of a small tube with a light and camera attached for image projection on a screen in the operating room. The tube enters the body via the mouth and then is guided down through the esophagus, into the stomach and to the duodenum.
- Gastroscopes may be fixed with additional attachments to remedy certain afflictions, on the spot. For instance, your doctor may be able to stretch narrowed areas or even stop GI bleeding, as soon as the issue is identified.
- During an upper endoscopy, tissue samples may be collected for a biopsy to test for diseases and conditions, such as anemia or cancers affecting the digestive system.
M Doctor’s Hub specializes in helping restore you and your family to optimal digestive health. Reach out to us if you need endoscopy or colonoscopy in Siliguri.