Firoozabadi Medical Education Center

What Is Endoscopy?

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.

Common Uses of Endoscopy:

• 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

Types of Endoscopy:

1. Gastroscopy – to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum

2. Colonoscopy – to view the colon and rectum

3. Bronchoscopy – for visualizing the airways and lungs

4. Cystoscopy – to inspect the bladder

5. Hysteroscopy – to examine the uterus

6. Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) – combines endoscopy with ultrasound imaging

Procedure Overview:

1. 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.

2. Sedation:

   • Most procedures involve local anesthesia or IV sedation to ensure patient comfort.

3. 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.

4. Duration:

   • Most procedures take between 10 and 30 minutes.

 Post-Procedure Care:

• 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.

Recovery and Downtime:

• 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.

Possible (Rare) Risks:

• Bleeding, especially after biopsy or polyp removal

• Perforation of the organ wall (extremely rare)

• Allergic reactions to sedatives

Benefits of Endoscopy:

• Minimally invasive

• Highly accurate and efficient

• Quick recovery

• Can provide both diagnosis and treatment

Department of Endoscopy and Colonoscopy

Members of the Department:

• Dr. Mohammad Reza Azizi, Gastroenterology Subspecialist
• Dr. Mehran Haghighi, Gastroenterology Subspecialist
• Mrs. Zahra Rahimi, Anesthesia Specialist
• Mr. Abbas Eskandari, Nursing Specialist