Endoscopy

What is Endoscopy?

Endoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that enables doctors to examine the inside of the digestive tract using a flexible tube fitted with a camera, known as an endoscope. This procedure is crucial for detecting, diagnosing, and sometimes treating gastrointestinal (GI) conditions without the need for open surgery.

The type of endoscopy performed depends on the area of the digestive system being examined. Upper GI Endoscopy (EGD) is used to evaluate the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. A colonoscopy is performed to inspect the colon and rectum. ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is used to diagnose and manage issues in the bile ducts and pancreas. Meanwhile, Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) provides high-resolution imaging and allows for biopsies of deeper GI structures, including the pancreas and nearby lymph nodes.

Symptoms That May Require Endoscopy

• Persistent abdominal pain

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

• Chronic heartburn or acid reflux

• Vomiting blood (hematemesis)

• Unexplained weight loss

• Black or tarry stools (melena)

• Chronic diarrhea or constipation

• Jaundice or signs of bile duct obstruction

• Screening for gastrointestinal cancers or polyps

Early endoscopic evaluation can help detect serious conditions like ulcers, tumours, varices, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) before they progress.

What Is the Treatment Involved?

• Polyp removal during colonoscopy

• Control of gastrointestinal bleeding (band ligation, injection, or thermal therapy)

• Esophageal or bowel stricture dilation

• Foreign body removal

• Bile duct stone removal via ERCP

• Stent placement in blocked ducts or narrowed areas

• Tissue biopsy to investigate infections, cancers, or inflammation

All procedures are done using state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring maximum safety, accuracy, and minimal discomfort.

Why Choose Dr. Kushan Kaushik Sengupta for Endoscopy?

With advanced qualifications in Gastroenterology and Transplant Hepatology, and expertise in Interventional Endoscopy, Dr. Sengupta offers endoscopic care that is:

• Patient-centered

• Evidence-based

• Minimally invasive

• Backed by years of specialist training at top hospitals like Apollo Chennai and Rela Hospital