A gastrointestinal endoscopy is a medical procedure that enables doctors to closely examine organs in the digestive tract, detect lesions early, and perform minimally invasive biopsies to check for diseases. According to Dr. Vu Truong Khanh, Head of the Department of Gastroenterology at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi, gastrointestinal endoscopy is the “gold standard” for examining, diagnosing, and intervening in diseases of the upper and lower digestive tracts.
The procedure involves using a soft, small-diameter tube with a camera attached to it to diagnose conditions of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, pancreas, and colon. The patient is given light anesthesia during the procedure to allow for complete observation without missing even the smallest lesions. This method offers several advantages over other imaging techniques as it allows doctors to closely observe and examine organs in the digestive tract.
By performing gastrointestinal endoscopy, doctors can identify underlying causes of symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, pain, unexplained weight loss constipation diarrhea and black stools. By examining intestinal mucosa doctors can quickly determine these symptoms’ cause and provide appropriate treatment. Additionally, this procedure allows for minimally invasive biopsies which are essential for identifying diseases such as malignancies or rare conditions like celiac disease.
Furthermore, gastrointestinal endoscopy can be used to treat conditions like biliary obstruction and perform early cancer screenings through procedures such as polypectomy. Removing gallstones and identifying polyps can prevent complications or progression to more severe conditions like cancer. Dr Khanh recommends that patients with gastrointestinal symptoms seek early examination by a gastroenterology specialist to determine whether endoscopy is necessary for diagnosis and treatment. Regular screenings starting at age 40-50 can help detect cancer early and improve treatment outcomes.
In conclusion, gastrointestinal endoscopy is an essential diagnostic tool that allows doctors to observe organs in the digestive tract closely while detecting lesions early on. The minimally invasive nature of this procedure makes it ideal for treating various conditions while preventing potential complications or progressions to more severe illnesses. Patients should always consult with a gastroenterology specialist before undergoing any diagnostic or treatment procedures related to their gastrointestinal health concerns.
