Gastroscopy

A percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube placement is a medical procedure that involves the insertion of a feeding tube directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall. PEG tube placement is typically performed using an endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera and light on its tip, which allows healthcare providers to guide the tube into the stomach while visualizing the process on a monitor. PEG tube placement is commonly used for individuals who are unable to eat or drink adequately due to various conditions, such as neurological disorders, head and neck cancers, or other medical issues that hinder the ability to swallow or take in nutrition orally. PEG tubes provide a means of delivering nutrition, fluids, and medications directly into the stomach. After the procedure, patients are given instructions on how to care for the PEG tube, avoid infections, and administer feeds. Regular follow-up with healthcare providers is necessary to ensure the tube remains in good condition and to monitor the patient's nutritional status. The PEG tube can be used for short-term or long-term feeding, depending on the patient's medical needs.

Capsule endoscopy is a non-invasive medical procedure that involves swallowing a small, pill-sized capsule equipped with a camera and light source. This capsule, often referred to as a "camera pill," travels through the digestive tract, capturing images of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract's inner lining as it moves along. These images are wirelessly transmitted to a recording device worn by the patient, allowing healthcare providers to visualize and analyze the condition of the GI tract. Capsule endoscopy is commonly used for several purposes: • Small Intestine Examination: It is especially useful for visualizing the small intestine, as this part of the GI tract is not easily reached by traditional endoscopy or colonoscopy. • Diagnosis: Capsule endoscopy can help diagnose conditions such as obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (bleeding of unknown origin), Crohn's disease, celiac disease, tumors, polyps, and other abnormalities in the GI tract. Capsule endoscopy is generally well-tolerated and less invasive than traditional endoscopic procedures. The capsule is usually excreted naturally within a day or two after ingestion. However, there are some limitations to capsule endoscopy, such as its inability to perform biopsies or treat conditions during the procedure.

Enteroscopy is a medical procedure used to visualize and examine the small intestine, which is located between the stomach and the large intestine (colon). The small intestine is relatively difficult to access using traditional imaging methods like endoscopy or colonoscopy due to its length and location. Double-Balloon Enteroscopy: This method employs an endoscope with two balloons, one at the tip and another on the side. The balloons are alternately inflated and deflated to advance the scope through the small intestine in a "step-by-step" manner. Enteroscopy is used for several purposes: 1. Diagnosis: It can help diagnose various conditions affecting the small intestine, including Crohn's disease, tumours, ulcers, bleeding, celiac disease, and other inflammatory or structural disorders. 2. Biopsies: During enteroscopy, tissue samples (biopsies) can be taken from the small intestine's lining to aid in diagnosing certain diseases. 3. Polyp and Lesion Removal: If polyps, lesions, or abnormal growths are identified, enteroscopy can be used to remove or treat them. 4. Bleeding Management: Enteroscopy can help identify the source of gastrointestinal bleeding in the small intestine and potentially allow for interventions to stop the bleeding.

Patient Information: ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) What is ERCP? ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is a medical procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the bile ducts, pancreas, and gallbladder. It combines endoscopy and X-ray imaging to visualize and manage abnormalities such as gallstones, strictures, or blockages. Why is ERCP Done? Your doctor may recommend ERCP if you have: Gallstones in the bile duct Bile duct strictures (narrowing) Pancreatitis with suspected ductal obstruction Tumors affecting the bile or pancreatic ducts Unexplained jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes) How is ERCP Performed? You will be given sedation or anesthesia for comfort. A thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is passed through your mouth into the digestive tract. A special dye is injected into the bile and pancreatic ducts to make them visible on X-ray. If necessary, treatments like stone removal, stent placement, or dilation of strictures can be done during the procedure. Preparation for ERCP Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before the procedure. Inform your doctor about any medications, allergies, or existing health conditions. Arrange for someone to take you home after the procedure due to sedation effects. Risks and Possible Complications While ERCP is generally safe, potential risks include: Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) Infection Bleeding Perforation (rare but serious) After the Procedure You may feel mild throat discomfort or bloating, which should subside. Avoid eating for a few hours until advised by your doctor. Watch for severe pain, fever, or persistent nausea, and contact your doctor if these occur. When to Seek Medical Help Call your doctor immediately if you experience: Severe abdominal pain High fever or chills Persistent nausea or vomiting Jaundice worsening after the procedure ERCP is a valuable tool for diagnosing and treating digestive system conditions. If you have any concerns, discuss them with your doctor before the procedure.

Patient Information: Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) What is Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)? Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) is a minimally invasive procedure that combines endoscopy and ultrasound to examine the digestive tract and nearby organs. It provides detailed images of the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver, bile ducts, and lymph nodes. Why is EUS Performed? Your doctor may recommend EUS for various reasons, including: Evaluating abnormal findings from other imaging tests (e.g., CT, MRI) Diagnosing and staging cancers of the digestive tract, pancreas, or nearby organs Assessing unexplained abdominal pain or weight loss Examining cysts, tumors, or lesions Guiding fine-needle aspiration (FNA) to obtain tissue samples for biopsy Evaluating chronic conditions such as pancreatitis How to Prepare for EUS? Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything for at least 6–8 hours before the procedure. Medications: Inform your doctor about any medications, especially blood thinners or diabetes medications. Allergies: Inform your doctor about any allergies, particularly to anesthesia or sedatives. Medical History: Share any past surgeries, medical conditions, or concerns with your doctor. What Happens During the Procedure? You will receive sedation or anesthesia to keep you comfortable. The doctor will insert a thin, flexible tube (endoscope) with an ultrasound probe through your mouth or rectum, depending on the area being examined. The ultrasound probe captures high-resolution images of the digestive organs. If needed, a fine needle may be used to collect tissue samples for further analysis. The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes. What to Expect After EUS? You may feel mild throat discomfort or bloating, which usually resolves quickly. If you received sedation, you may feel drowsy, so arrange for someone to take you home. Most patients resume normal activities the next day. Your doctor will discuss any findings and next steps after the procedure. Are There Any Risks? EUS is generally safe, but potential risks include: Mild discomfort in the throat or abdomen Rare complications such as bleeding or infection (more likely if a biopsy is taken) Temporary changes in blood pressure or heart rate due to sedation When to Contact Your Doctor? Seek medical attention if you experience: Severe abdominal pain Persistent vomiting or difficulty swallowing Fever or signs of infection Bleeding from the throat or rectum Conclusion Endoscopic Ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic tool that provides detailed images and helps guide treatment decisions. If you have any concerns or questions, discuss them with your doctor before the procedure.

• Used for examination of the inner lining of the LARGE INTESTINES (COLON) • BOWEL PREPARATION: dietary restrictions and bowel cleansing is done to ensure clear view of colon lining. • PAINLESS: It is done under mild sedation – so you don’t experience any pain / discomfort during or after the procedure. • SAFE: in experienced hands. USES: 1. COLON CANCER Screening 2. Diagnosis and Evaluation: inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), diverticulosis, infective colitis. 3. Polyp Removal and Biopsy: If polyps or suspicious areas are detected they can be removed and sent for testing to determine if they are cancerous or precancerous. 4. Treatment: it can be used to stop active bleeding from a bleeding ulcer or dilate narrow areas of the colon that might be causing blockages or even for putting stents in the intestines.