4 Benefits of Endoscopy

In Singapore’s fast-paced society, maintaining our health often takes a back seat to daily responsibilities. Yet, proactive health measures, such as regular medical check-ups, are vital for ensuring long-term well-being. One key procedure in this realm is endoscopy, a highly effective method for diagnosing and treating various digestive issues.

Understanding the benefits of endoscopy empowers individuals to take control of their digestive health and seek timely medical intervention when necessary. In this article, we will explore what endoscopy involves, who should consider it, and the numerous advantages it offers.

What is Endoscopy?

An endoscopy is a medical procedure that involves inserting a thin, flexible tube, known as an endoscope, into the body to examine internal organs and tissues. This tube is equipped with a tiny camera and a light source at its tip, allowing doctors to view the inside of the body on a monitor. The endoscopy is primarily used to inspect the digestive tract, but it can also be employed to examine other parts of the body, such as the respiratory system and joints. The procedure can be both diagnostic and therapeutic, meaning it can be used to identify issues and also to treat certain conditions directly.

Before  the advent of endoscopy, doctors had to rely on more invasive surgical procedures or less detailed imaging techniques to diagnose internal issues. The ability to directly visualise the internal organs has greatly improved diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. The technology has continually advanced, with improvements in imaging quality and the miniaturisation of instruments, making the procedure safer and more effective.

Endoscopy can be classified into different types based on the area of the body being examined. For instance, a gastroscopy focuses on the oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine, while a colonoscopy examines the colon and rectum. Bronchoscopy is used for the respiratory system, and arthroscopy is employed for joints. Each type of endoscopy requires specialised training and equipment, ensuring that the procedure is tailored to the specific needs of the patient.

Who should get an Endoscopy?

Endoscopy is a versatile procedure recommended for a variety of patients, particularly those exhibiting symptoms that suggest underlying issues within the digestive tract. Individuals experiencing persistent symptoms such as abdominal pain, chronic heartburn, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or gastrointestinal bleeding should consider an endoscopy. These symptoms can be indicative of conditions like ulcers, gastritis, Barrett’s oesophagus, or more serious diseases such as cancer.

Patients with a family history of digestive diseases or those with risk factors such as smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, or a diet high in processed foods might be advised to undergo regular endoscopic screenings. This proactive approach is particularly important for early detection and prevention of conditions like colorectal cancer, which can be asymptomatic in its early stages.

Moreover, endoscopy is crucial for patients with existing gastrointestinal conditions that require monitoring. For example, individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, often need periodic endoscopies to assess the state of their condition and adjust treatment plans accordingly. This ongoing monitoring helps in managing the disease more effectively and preventing complications.

Another group that might benefit from endoscopy includes individuals who have undergone previous imaging tests, such as X-rays or ultrasounds, that did not provide conclusive results. In such cases, an endoscopy can offer a more detailed view and facilitate accurate diagnosis. Ultimately, the decision to undergo an endoscopy should be made in consultation with an endoscopy doctor, who can evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors to determine the necessity and timing of the procedure.

Benefits of Endoscopy

Early Detection of Any Digestive Diseases

One of the most significant benefits of endoscopy is its ability to detect digestive diseases at an early stage.

For example, during a colonoscopy, which is a type of endoscopy used to examine the colon and rectum, doctors can detect polyps, which are small growths on the inner lining of the colon.

Similarly, upper endoscopy, which examines the oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine, can detect early signs of oesophageal or stomach cancer, allowing for early intervention and treatment.

Early Treatment of Diseases

In addition to early detection, endoscopy can facilitate early treatment of various diseases. During the procedure, doctors can perform biopsies, remove polyps, and treat bleeding or other issues on the spot. This immediate intervention can prevent the progression of diseases and reduce the need for more invasive surgeries later on.

For instance, removing polyps during a colonoscopy can prevent them from developing into cancer. Endoscopy also allows for the treatment of conditions such as oesophageal varices, which are enlarged veins in the oesophagus that can bleed. Using endoscopic techniques, doctors can band these veins to stop bleeding and prevent future episodes.

Similarly, endoscopy can be used to treat strictures or narrowings, in the digestive tract by dilating them, thereby relieving symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or bowel obstruction.

Furthermore, endoscopic techniques are continually evolving, with new treatments being developed and refined. For example, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a relatively new technique used to remove early-stage tumours from the gastrointestinal tract without the need for more invasive surgery. This technique allows for the complete removal of larger or more complex lesions that would be difficult to remove with traditional endoscopic methods.

Quick and Easy Procedure

Endoscopy is a relatively quick and straightforward procedure, usually completed within 30 to 60 minutes. Patients often receive a sedative to help them relax, and the procedure itself is minimally invasive, with most patients experiencing only mild discomfort. 

Recovery time is generally short, with many people returning to their normal activities the same day or the following day. The efficiency of endoscopy means that patients can receive a diagnosis and, if necessary, treatment without the need for prolonged hospital stays. This convenience makes endoscopy an attractive option for both patients and healthcare providers.

The preparation for an endoscopy is usually straightforward, involving fasting for a certain period before the procedure and, in the case of a colonoscopy, taking a laxative to clear the colon. These preparations help ensure a clear view during the procedure, making it more effective and accurate. The minimally invasive nature of endoscopy also means that there is minimal disruption to the patient's daily life, and the quick recovery time allows them to resume their normal activities promptly.

Safe Procedure with Shorter Recovery and Minimal Complications

While any medical procedure carries some risks, the complications associated with endoscopy are rare and usually minor. These can include reactions to sedation, bleeding at the site of a biopsy or polyp removal, and, in very rare cases, perforation of the digestive tract. However, the overall risk of serious complications is very low, and the benefits of early detection and treatment far outweigh these risks.

Moreover, endoscopy is continually being refined and improved. Advances in technology, such as high-definition imaging and enhanced lighting, have made the procedure even safer and more effective. New techniques and tools allow for more precise and less invasive interventions, further reducing the risk of complications and improving patient outcomes.

Get Endoscopy Treatment in Singapore

An endoscopy is a potentially life-saving procedure, and knowing more about it is crucial for protecting your health. The Colorectal Clinic focuses on providing specialist care for colorectal conditions in Singapore, including gastroscopy. 

With our team of specialist doctors, we aim to make your colorectal health our priority. 

If you believe that you require an endoscopy in Singapore and would like to enquire about its cost book an appointment with us now.