Internal MedicineGastroenterology
Gastroscopy
Gastroscopy
Gastroscopy, fully known as "electronic fiber gastro-duodenoscope," is a diagnostic procedure used to examine diseases within the upper gastrointestinal tract (including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum).
During a gastroscopy, a doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube with a video camera at its tip through the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, and stomach, ultimately reaching the duodenum. Throughout this process, the internal lining of the upper gastrointestinal tract is visually inspected for any abnormalities or lesions. If necessary, the doctor can also directly take tissue samples from abnormal areas for pathological examination to determine the nature of the lesion.
Indications
Gastroscopy is recommended for the following individuals:
Those with upper gastrointestinal symptoms, including epigastric discomfort, bloating, pain, heartburn and acid reflux, dysphagia, globus sensation, belching, hiccups, and unexplained loss of appetite, weight loss, anemia, etc.
Those whose upper gastrointestinal barium meal examination cannot confirm the lesion or whose symptoms are inconsistent with the barium meal results.
Those with unexplained acute or chronic upper gastrointestinal bleeding; the former may undergo emergency gastroscopy to determine the cause and perform hemostatic treatment.
Those with lesions requiring follow-up, such as peptic ulcers, atrophic gastritis, precancerous lesions, or symptoms after gastric surgery.
Screening for high-risk populations (areas with high incidence of esophageal cancer and gastric cancer).
Those suitable for endoscopic treatment, such as gastric foreign bodies, gastric polyps, and esophageal and cardia strictures.
Differences between Painless Gastroscopy and Conventional Gastroscopy
Painless Gastroscopy
Requires the involvement of an anesthesiologist. The patient is sedated and analgesized intravenously, losing consciousness and entering a state of general anesthesia before the examination. Anesthesia can prevent the gag reflex and reduce discomfort for the patient, allowing the doctor to complete the examination smoothly and calmly. The patient typically regains consciousness within 3 to 5 minutes after the examination. The disadvantages include higher cost and the various risks associated with general anesthesia.
Conventional Gastroscopy
No general anesthesia is administered during the examination; only topical anesthesia is applied to the pharynx to reduce the gag reflex, but it does not completely eliminate it.
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