Endoscopy

Gastroscopy is an upper gastrointestinal tract examination in which the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum are visualized. The procedure is performed using a flexible, thin tube-like optical instrument that allows direct inspection of the inner surfaces of these organs. If necessary, tissue samples can be taken immediately, benign lesions removed, or bleeding stopped.

When should you have a gastroscopy?

• upper abdominal pain, heartburn, belching, or a sensation of a lump in the throat
• difficulty swallowing, eating problems, recurrent nausea or vomiting
• unexplained weight loss or anemia
• vomiting blood
• need for post-treatment or post-surgical follow-up

A colonoscopy is a modern intestinal examination used to evaluate the large intestine (colon), rectum, and the terminal part of the small intestine. It is the most accurate method for assessing the lining of the colon and the only diagnostic method that can reliably rule out colorectal cancer.

Colonoscopy helps identify the causes of gastrointestinal symptoms by detecting polyps, tumors, inflammatory changes, diverticula, or hemorrhoids. If necessary, polyps can be removed and tissue samples (biopsies) taken during the procedure.

When should you have a colonoscopy?

• long-term abdominal pain or diarrhea
• blood in the stool or unexplained weight loss
• symptoms of intestinal inflammation, such as bloating, intestinal cramps, or diarrhea
• a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps

What is a Sigmoidoscopy?

A sigmoidoscopy is an examination of the lower part of the large intestine, during which the rectum and sigmoid colon are examined. The procedure is performed using a flexible, thin, tube-like optical instrument, which is usually used to examine approximately 60 cm of the large intestine. In essence, sigmoidoscopy is a partial colonoscopy.

If necessary, tissue samples (biopsies) can be taken and polyps can be removed during the examination.

You should undergo the examination if you experience:

• bleeding from the rectum or blood in the stool;
• lower abdominal pain or recurrent abdominal cramps;
• prolonged constipation or diarrhoea;
• changes in bowel habits;
• suspected inflammation of the rectum or sigmoid colon, polyps, or other abnormalities;
• the need for a follow-up examination after a previously diagnosed disease of the rectum or sigmoid colon.

How to prepare for a sigmoidoscopy

For a successful sigmoidoscopy, the bowel must be cleared of stool. A Microlax enema is used for this purpose before the examination.

• Use one Microlax enema on the evening before the examination.
• Use a second Microlax enema 2 hours before coming for the examination.
• A bowel movement is usually triggered after using the enema, so please allow for the possibility of needing to stay close to a toilet.
• A special diet or complete cleansing of the entire large intestine with a bowel preparation solution is generally not required before a sigmoidoscopy.

The results of tissue samples (biopsies) are available within 3–4 weeks. The results will be communicated either by the family doctor who referred you for the examination or, in the case of a paid examination, by the doctor who performed the examination.

If further clarification of the diagnosis is needed during the examination, a tissue sample is taken and sent to the laboratory for microscopic examination.