Endoscopy Unit

What is Endoscopy?

Endoscopy, also known as gastrointestinal endoscopy, is a general term for procedures used to examine the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, and colon.

Why is Endoscopy Performed?

Endoscopy is performed when diseases of the esophagus, duodenum, and stomach are suspected. Patients experiencing symptoms such as acid reflux, stomach pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, bitter taste in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, bloating, or indigestion may need an endoscopic examination.

Types of Endoscopy

• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (Upper GI Endoscopy)
• Colonoscopy (Lower Gastrointestinal Endoscopy)
• Double-Balloon Enteroscopy
• Capsule Endoscopy
• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
• Chromoscopy
• Narrow Band Imaging (NBI)
• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)

How is Endoscopy Performed?

Endoscopy is a simple procedure usually performed under sedation. The procedure involves inserting an endoscope through the mouth to examine the stomach and stomach walls or through the rectum to examine the colon. Depending on the findings and the procedure, it may take between 10 to 30 minutes.

Preparation Before Endoscopy

Patients undergoing endoscopy are advised not to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the procedure. It is especially important to have an empty stomach for gastric endoscopy.

Post-Endoscopy Recommendations

After endoscopy, patients should avoid eating or drinking for 2 hours. This helps prevent nausea and vomiting. After the 2-hour period, it is recommended to start with liquid foods.

Post-Endoscopy Complaints

Patients may experience nausea or a sore throat after the procedure. These symptoms usually resolve within a few hours. However, if severe stomach pain, persistent heartburn, difficulty breathing, or bleeding occurs, a doctor should be consulted immediately.

Does Endoscopy Hurt?

Unless there is a special condition, the procedure is performed under sedation. Endoscopy is a painless and non-invasive procedure that typically lasts only 10 minutes. In addition to diagnosis and imaging, endoscopy can also be used as a treatment method.

Is the Patient Sedated During Endoscopy?

Endoscopy is performed under mild sedation, so the patient does not feel anything during the procedure and does not experience any pain. Therefore, there is no reason for patients to fear the procedure.