Endoscopy is a diagnostic—and at times therapeutic—procedure that involves the use of a flexible, thin tube equipped with a camera and light, called an endoscope, to visualize the inside of the body. This minimally invasive technique allows physicians to examine internal organs and structures without the need for open surgery.
Diagnosis of gastrointestinal disorders (such as ulcers, reflux, or tumors)
Investigating the cause of gastrointestinal bleeding
Biopsy of suspicious tissue
Polyp removal
Detection of infections or cancers
Retrieval of foreign objects
Gastroscopy – to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum
Colonoscopy – to view the colon and rectum
Bronchoscopy – for visualizing the airways and lungs
Cystoscopy – to inspect the bladder
Hysteroscopy – to examine the uterus
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) – combines endoscopy with ultrasound imaging
Preparation:
Patients are usually asked to fast for 6–8 hours prior to the procedure.
For a colonoscopy, bowel preparation with laxatives and a clear-liquid diet is required.
Sedation:
Most procedures involve local anesthesia or IV sedation to ensure patient comfort.
The Procedure:
Depending on the type, the endoscope is inserted through the mouth, nose, or rectum.
The physician views real-time images on a monitor.
Duration:
Most procedures take between 10 and 30 minutes.
You may experience mild bloating, sore throat, or abdominal discomfort that usually resolves within a few hours.
If sedation was used, a companion is necessary, and rest is recommended.
Avoid driving or making important decisions for 24 hours.
Contact your physician if you experience fever, severe pain, vomiting blood, or rectal bleeding.
For diagnostic endoscopy, recovery is quick—most patients resume normal activities the same or next day.
If therapeutic interventions (e.g., polyp removal) are performed, a short recovery period may be advised.
Bleeding, especially after biopsy or polyp removal
Perforation of the organ wall (extremely rare)
Allergic reactions to sedatives
Minimally invasive
Highly accurate and efficient
Quick recovery
Can provide both diagnosis and treatment
Department of Endoscopy and Colonoscopy
Members of the Department: