Endoscopy: A clear view inside the body

MANILA, Philippines - Do you have difficulty swallowing or are you experiencing constant vomiting or nausea? Do you have sudden weight loss or episodes of heartburn? These could be indications of abdominal-related illnesses that can be properly diagnosed through a clear view inside the body using endoscopy.

“Today, endoscopy has become an important medical procedure to provide effective diagnosis and treatment of abdominal pain and related illnesses with non-specific symptoms. It provides a thorough examination of the gastrointestinal tract,” says Dr. Gerardo Mendoza, consultant in gastroenterology at the Asian Hospital and Medical Center.

With the use of an endoscope, a thin flexible fiberoptic tube with a tiny TV camera at the end that is connected to a TV monitor, endoscopy allows physicians to peep through the body’s gastrointestinal tract. Endoscopy uses fiber optics and a powerful lens system providing lighting and clear visualization of the insides of the body. This procedure is commonly used to diagnose and treat various gastrointestinal diseases.

Among the common gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures performed today are esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) or gastroscopy, which examines the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine (duodenum). This procedure can detect ulcers, hiatal hernia, source of bleeding, tumors, and can remove foreign bodies. Colonoscopy, which examines the inside of the colon or large intestine, can detect and identify inflammations, ulcers, polyps, and colon cancers. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a combination of endoscopy and x-ray, which examines the gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreatic duct. It can identify, remove and treat the cause of biliary and pancreatic duct obstruction such as stones or strictures which cause jaundice or yellow discoloration of the eyes and skin.

Endoscopic procedures are highly preferred today for their minimally invasive approach, thus letting patients feel less discomfort, adds Dr. Mendoza. The risk for complications is very minimal and far outweighed by the benefits the procedure offers. On top of that, it can be done as an outpatient procedure so patients can go home or return to work within a short time after the procedure is performed.

For proper diagnosis of abdominal conditions through endoscopic procedures, the Asian Hospital and Medical Center has a Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Unit, which provides a full range of consultations and procedures in the care of digestive disorders and problems of the gastrointestinal system.    

To know more about endoscopy and services offered, visit the unit at the second floor of the Medical Office Building. For inquiries, call 771-9000 to 02 local 8217.