Endoscopy of the stomach: indications and effectiveness

Endoscopy of the stomach and upper gastrointestinal tract (GVD of the stomach, or gastroscopy) is most often performed to determine the cause of heartburn and refers to outpatient procedures. Using a thin optical device with a tip equipped with a light source and a video camera, the esophagus is examined, i.e. The upper part of the digestive tract, as well as the stomach and the body of the duodenum. Endoscopic examination of the stomach allows performing other procedures, including tissue biopsy.

Indications for conduction

This procedure is used in emergency situations in hospitals or emergency departments to identify and timely start treatment for bleeding caused by ulcers or other causes.

Endoscopy of the stomach is used in the following cases:

• Unclear pain in the peritoneum and abdomen;
• Vomiting or nausea;
• Bleeding in the stomach;
• Difficulty in swallowing.

The procedure is quite effective for determining neoplasms and for examining the internal walls of the digestive tract. It is more accurate than X-ray examination.

Preparation for the

Endoscopy is a test, before which the patient is obliged to inform the doctor about the medicines or additives currently being taken.

The patient should inform the doctor about existing problems with his health or unusual conditions. If necessary, the doctor will recommend that you temporarily stop taking these medications.

Endoscopy of the stomach is carried out on an empty stomach, in which there should be neither food nor water. The patient refrains from taking fluids and does not eat 6 hours before the procedure.

If the patient is sick with diabetes and does not do without insulin, on the day of the examination, he needs to adjust the dose of the drug, after consulting with the endocrinologist.

Endoscopy of the stomach is carried out after taking sedatives, so the patient should not get behind the wheel this day.

Execution of the procedure

Endoscopy is conducted by an experienced doctor. Previously, the patient puts on a hospital gown and removes glasses and dentures, if any.

The back wall of the patient's throat is treated with a local anesthetic.

Intravenously, a sedative and anesthetic is administered , which will make him feel drowsy and relaxed.

The mouthpiece of the patient is placed a mouthpiece that does not interfere with breathing.

During the procedure, the patient lies on his side, and an endoscope is inserted into his mouth, which will enter the stomach through the esophagus. Inspection lasts no more than 30 minutes.

The doctor sometimes discusses the procedure with the patient, and then sends it to the treating doctor.

In those cases when the results of the study and biopsy indicate the need for emergency medical care, all the necessary measures are taken, which is notified by the attending physician and the patient.

When to contact a doctor?

If, after an endoscopic examination, the patient experiences acute pain in the throat or abdomen, chest pain, persistent coughing, vomiting, or chills, he should immediately consult a doctor.