Digestive health plays a crucial role in overall well-being. Doctors today use advanced tools like Endoscopy, Colonoscopy, and ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) to diagnose and treat conditions inside the digestive system without major surgery. This guide explains what these procedures are, why they’re performed, and what you should expect.
Endoscopy is a procedure where a flexible tube with a light and camera (endoscope) is used to examine the inside of the digestive tract.
Upper GI Endoscopy (Gastroscopy): Examines the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine.
Uses: Detects ulcers, acid reflux (GERD), gastritis, celiac disease, bleeding, and early cancers.
Procedure: The doctor inserts the endoscope through the mouth under sedation. Tissue samples (biopsies) may be taken.
Persistent heartburn, nausea, swallowing difficulties, unexplained weight loss, or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Colonoscopy is a type of endoscopy used to view the large intestine (colon) and rectum.
Detects colorectal cancer, polyps, inflammation, ulcers, and diverticulosis.
A bowel-cleansing solution is taken before the procedure.
Procedure: A colonoscope is gently inserted through the rectum to examine the colon. Polyps can be removed on the spot.
Colorectal cancer screening (usually after age 45–50), rectal bleeding, chronic diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal pain.
ERCP is a specialized endoscopic test that examines the bile ducts, pancreas, and gallbladder.
Diagnosing gallstones, bile duct obstructions, strictures, pancreatitis, and certain cancers. Treating problems by removing stones, inserting stents, or widening narrowed ducts.
Unexplained jaundice, severe abdominal pain, abnormal liver tests, or blocked bile ducts.
