If your doctor needs to examine something inside your body, an endoscope or a Gastroscopy may be recommended. Both are non-invasive techniques that let your doctor examine your internal organs without cutting you open. There is a difference between these techniques that are necessary to know before undergoing the process.
On this page, you will learn about the basics of endoscopy and gastroscopy including their differences from each other. So, take a moment and read the following details.
Introduction – Endoscopy and Gastroscopy:
Endoscopy and gastroscopy are medical procedures that involve the use of an endoscope, a long, thin, flexible tube with a camera and light source attached to its tip, to examine the inside of the body. Endoscopy is a general term that refers to the use of an endoscope to examine various parts of the body, while gastroscopy specifically refers to the use of an endoscope to examine the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine.
During the procedure, the Endoscopy is inserted through the mouth and down the throat into the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum. This allows the doctor to examine the lining of these organs for any abnormalities, such as inflammation, ulcers, or tumors. The procedure may also involve taking tissue samples for further testing or performing minor surgical procedures, such as removing polyps.
Endoscopy and gastroscopy are commonly used to diagnose and treat a variety of gastrointestinal conditions, including acid reflux, gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastrointestinal bleeding. The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis and typically takes less than an hour to complete. Patients are usually given sedation or anaesthesia to help them relax and minimise discomfort during the procedure.
What is the Difference Between Them?
Endoscopy and gastroscopy are both medical procedures that use an endoscope to examine the inside of the body, but there are some key differences between them.
Area of Examination:
The main difference between endoscopy and gastroscopy is the area of the body that is examined. Endoscopy can be used to examine various parts of the body, such as the oesophagus, stomach, colon, and lungs, while gastroscopy specifically focuses on the examination of the stomach and upper part of the small intestine.
Purpose:
While both procedures are used to diagnose and treat gastrointestinal conditions, gastroscopy is primarily used to diagnose and treat conditions related to the stomach, such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, and stomach cancer. Endoscopy, on the other hand, can be used to diagnose and treat a wider range of conditions, such as esophageal cancer, colon cancer, and lung cancer.
Procedure:
The procedure for endoscopy and gastroscopy is similar, but there are some differences in how the endoscope is inserted and manoeuvred. During gastroscopy, the endoscope is inserted through the mouth and down the throat, and the camera and light source are used to examine the lining of the stomach and small intestine. During endoscopy, the endoscope may be inserted through the mouth, anus, or nose, depending on the area of the body being examined. The procedure may also involve more complex manoeuvres, such as looping the endoscope through the small intestine to reach the colon.
Preparation:
The preparation for endoscopy and gastroscopy may also differ slightly. Both procedures typically require the patient to fast for several hours before the procedure and to undergo a bowel preparation to clear out the digestive system. However, gastroscopy may require additional preparation, such as taking medication to reduce stomach acid or to numb the throat.
Is Endoscopy Or Gastroscopy Suitable For Everyone?
Endoscopy and gastroscopy are generally safe and well-tolerated procedures, but they may not be suitable for everyone. Your doctor will evaluate your medical history and overall health to determine if endoscopy or gastroscopy is appropriate for you. Some factors that may affect the suitability of endoscopy or gastroscopy include:
- Age: While endoscopy and gastroscopy can be performed on patients of any age, older adults may have a higher risk of complications, such as bleeding or perforation.
- Medical history: Patients with certain medical conditions, such as heart or lung disease, may have a higher risk of complications during the procedure. Patients with a history of bleeding disorders or blood-thinning medications may also be at increased risk of bleeding during the procedure.
- Allergies: Patients with allergies to sedatives, local anaesthetics, or other medications used during the procedure may not be suitable candidates for endoscopy or gastroscopy.
- Pregnancy: Endoscopy and gastroscopy are generally considered safe during pregnancy, but the risks and benefits should be carefully evaluated by your doctor.
- Physical limitations: Patients with certain physical limitations, such as difficulty swallowing or severe obesity, may not be suitable candidates for endoscopy or gastroscopy.
In some cases, alternative diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or ultrasounds, may be recommended instead of endoscopy or gastroscopy. It is important to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your doctor to determine if endoscopy or gastroscopy is appropriate for you.
The Bottom Line!
In summary, while endoscopy and gastroscopy are similar procedures that use an endoscope to examine the inside of the body, they differ in terms of the area of examination, purpose, procedure, and preparation. Your doctor will determine which procedure is most appropriate for your specific condition and medical history.
If you want to consult with an expert doctor for both procedures, feel free to visit Our Hospital. They are professional and will examine your condition with accurate performance. So, don’t wait and get your appointment right away.
