Gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows a healthcare provider to examine the inside of the gastrointestinal tract using an endoscope. An endoscope is a flexible tube with a light and camera on the end that provides a view of the GI tract on a monitor. GI endoscopy can help diagnose and treat various conditions affecting the upper and lower GI tract.

Reasons for GI Endoscopy

• To diagnose symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and weight loss.
• To screen for cancers of the GI tract, such as esophageal, gastric, or colorectal cancer.
• To diagnose and monitor conditions such as GERD, IBD, celiac disease, and peptic ulcers.
• To perform therapeutic procedures such as polyp removal, biopsy, or treating bleeding.

Types of GI Endoscopy

• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD): Can diagnose conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, and cancers.
• Colonoscopy:Used for colorectal cancer screening and to diagnose conditions such as polyps, diverticulosis, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• Sigmoidoscopy: Useful for diagnosing rectal bleeding and other issues in the lower colon.
• Capsule Endoscopy: Involves swallowing a small capsule containing a camera.
• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP):Combines endoscopy and X-ray imaging to examine the bile and pancreatic ducts.