Endoscopy
Endoscopy is a sophisticated procedure that provides us with an inside view of your body's natural passageways, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment.
What is endoscopy?
Endoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic medical procedure. It involves guiding a narrow tube, known as an endoscope, down the body's natural passageway, typically through the mouth.
The endoscope is equipped with a camera and a light, allowing Dr Amaambo to view images of the digestive tract on a video monitor. He performs endoscopies in our specialised medical rooms, ensuring comfort and privacy.
Why might someone need an endoscopy?
Endoscopy investigates symptoms such as:
- Stomach pain
- Ulcers
- Difficulty swallowing
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Diverticular disease
- Gastro-intestinal bleeding & peptic ulcer disease.
It can also help diagnose conditions like gastritis, celiac disease, and cancers of the digestive system. In some cases, endoscopy allows for treatment interventions, like biopsy, polyp removal, or dilation of narrowed areas.
How do I prepare for an endoscopy procedure?
Preparation typically involves fasting for a specific period before the procedure to ensure a clear view of the digestive tract. You may need to adjust your medications under the guidance of Dr Amaambo.
He will provide detailed instructions during your pre-procedure consultation.
What happens during an endoscopy procedure?
Dr Amaambo will ensure you are comfortable during your endoscopy by providing a light sedative. The endoscope is gently inserted through the mouth and guided down the oesophagus to the stomach and duodenum. The procedure is generally painless, and your breathing won’t be impacted at all.
Dr Amaambo and the team monitor and record images for evaluation and, if necessary, will pass small instruments through the endoscope to perform specific treatments or collect tissue samples.
What does the recovery process entail?
Post-procedure, you will rest in our recovery area until the effects of the sedative wear off. You might experience mild discomfort like bloating or a sore throat, but these symptoms are typically short-lived. Most patients can resume normal activities within a day.
Dr Amaambo will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions and schedule a follow-up to discuss the findings and the necessary steps.
What are the benefits of an endoscopy?
Endoscopy offers several advantages:
- Accurate Diagnosis: Provides a clear view of the digestive tract for precise diagnosis.
- Minimally Invasive: Less invasive than traditional surgery, with no incisions needed.
- Quick Procedure: Usually completed within an hour, allowing for a brief practice visit.
- Rapid Recovery: Minimal recovery time with few restrictions post-procedure.
- Potential for Treatment: Ability to perform certain treatments during the diagnostic procedure.
What are the potential complications?
While endoscopy is safe, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks. These can include reactions to sedation, bleeding, and, in rare cases, perforation of the gastrointestinal tract.
Dr Amaambo and his team prioritise your safety and will discuss all potential risks and how to minimise them.