Endoscopy in simple terms

What is it?

An examination of the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a flexible, thin scope with a video camera.

When should you get one?

• Frequent heartburn, belching, bitterness in the mouth
• Pain in the upper abdomen (on an empty stomach or after eating)
• Persistent nausea or difficulty swallowing

How to prepare?

The procedure is performed strictly fasting. Last meal — at least 8-10 hours before the examination. Do not drink water 3-4 hours before the procedure.

Why is it vital?

The gold standard for colon cancer prevention. Allows detecting and immediately removing polyps (benign growths) before they become dangerous.

Is it painful?

Modern colonoscopy is performed under sedation (medical sleep) in 95% of cases. You simply sleep for 15-20 minutes and do not feel any discomfort.

Key to preparation:

The quality of the exam is 90% dependent on bowel cleanliness. Follow a low-residue diet for 3 days and drink a special bowel-prep solution the night before.

Ultrasound Diagnostics

A quick and safe method to check the condition of internal organs (liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys) without radiation.

Operative Endoscopy

This is surgery without incisions. With the endoscope, the doctor can remove foreign bodies, stop internal bleeding, or perform a polypectomy (removal of stomach or bowel polyps) during the examination.

Advantages:

The patient recovers within a few hours after the procedure and can return to normal life.