Endoscopy (OGD)

Endoscopy is the examination of the upper digestive system i.e Esophagus, Stomach and Duodenum.

Reasons (indications) for Endoscopy

1. Heartburn
2. Upper abdominal pain
3. Nausea and Vomiting
4. Difficulty in swallowing
5. Weight loss
6. Anaemia
7. An abnormal x-ray and CT scan / MRI

Preparation for endoscopy (OGD)

Patients are advised to starve ( take nothing by mouth) for 6 – 8 hours, before the procedure

The Procedure

• You will be sedated / analgesia with midazolam and fentanyl during the procedure.
• Many people will sleep during the test, while others are relaxed, sleepy, comfortable and not aware of the procedure.
• The procedure takes about 30 minutes.
• The endoscope is introduced through the mouth advanced to the food pipe, stomach and duodenum while examining the inner linings.
• Normal linings, inflammations, varices, ulcer, polyps and tumor might be detected during the examination. Biopsies, removal of the polyps may be performed.

After the procedure

• You will be fully awake shortly and you will be given some tea or water to take.
• The doctor will discuss the endoscopy findings with you and the family.
• Discuss your prescription with the doctor.
• It is advisable to have someone drive you home and take a rest.
• You will be ready to resume normal duties the following day.
• The histology (if biopsies are taken) will be ready in 4 – 5 days.

Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is an examination of the large intestines / colon

 Reasons ( Indications ) for colonoscopy

• To screen for colon polyps or colon cancer
• A change in bowel habits like persistent diarrhea, constipation
• Anaemia
• A family history of colon cancer
• A personal history of colon polyps of colon cancer
• Chronic, unexplained abdominal pain
• Rectal pain and discomfort
•  An abnormal x-ray and CT scan / MRI

Preparation for colonoscopy

• Before colonoscopy, your colon will be cleaned/cleansed, so that the doctor can see the inner colon lining in detail.
• Take soft / light diet (mashed potatoes, rice, soup) the day before.
• Take plenty of fluids. i.e water, clear broth (chicken or vegetables)
• Avoid red liquids, fibre foods, seeds and nuts .
• Medicines to clear colon include Dulcolax, Coloprep, Picolax, Epsom salts, magnesium citrate, Pecol, Peglec

Colonoscopy procedure

• You will be sedated / analgesia with midazolam and fentanyl during the procedure.
• Many people will sleep during the test, while others are relaxed, sleepy, comfortable and not aware of the procedure.
• The procedure takes about 30 – 40 minutes.
• A colonoscope is introduced into the rectum and advanced examining the entire inner lining of the colon. Normal colon, inflammation, polyp, diverticulae, tumor might be detected.
• Biopsies and removal of the polyps might be performed

After the procedure

• You will be fully awake shortly and you will be given some tea or water to take.
• The doctor will discuss the colonoscopy findings with you and the family.
• Discuss your prescription with the doctor.
• It is advisable to have someone drive you home and take a rest.
• You will be ready to resume normal duties the following day.
• The histology (if biopsies are taken) will be ready in 4 – 5 days.