Gastroscopy and Colonoscopy

Understanding the Gastrointestinal Tract

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract, also known as the digestive tract, is a complex system that plays a crucial role in the body. It includes the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine (duodenum), and large intestine (colon). These organs work together to break down food, absorb nutrients, and expel waste from the body.

When Does Surgery Become Necessary

Certain conditions affecting the GI tract may necessitate a combined gastroscopy and colonoscopy. These include persistent symptoms such as abdominal pain, heartburn, unusual bowel movements, difficulty swallowing, and unexplained weight loss. This procedure can also be used to investigate and diagnose conditions like Crohn’s disease, diverticular disease, ulcerative colitis, colorectal cancer, and internal haemorrhoids.

Overview of the Surgical Procedure

A combined gastroscopy and colonoscopy, also known as an upper and lower GI endoscopy, is a diagnostic procedure that allows doctors to examine the lining of your oesophagus, stomach, duodenum, and colon. It involves the use of two scopes, a gastroscope and a colonoscope, which are equipped with tiny cameras that transmit images to a TV monitor for examination.

Surgical Procedures Explained

• Gastroscopy: A gastroscope is inserted through the mouth and passed into the stomach and duodenum to investigate symptoms like recurring heartburn, difficulty swallowing, upper abdominal pain, frequent vomiting, and recurring indigestion.
• Colonoscopy: A colonoscope enters through the rectum and is moved through the entire colon. It is used to look for bowel conditions such as Crohn’s disease, diverticular disease, ulcerative colitis, colorectal cancer, internal haemorrhoids, and polyps.

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Causes of the Issues

The need for a combined gastroscopy and colonoscopy often arises from persistent or severe symptoms that cannot be diagnosed or treated with less invasive methods. These symptoms may be caused by a variety of conditions, including gastrointestinal diseases, infections, cancers, and disorders of the digestive system.

Conditions Warranting Combined Gastroscopy and Colonoscopy

Specific conditions that may warrant this procedure include Crohn’s disease, diverticular disease, ulcerative colitis, colorectal cancer, and internal haemorrhoids. Lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and smoking can also influence the health of the GI tract and the need for this procedure.

Related Concerns

Medical issues associated with these conditions include inflammation, ulcers, polyps, and bleeding in the GI tract. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to serious complications such as bowel obstruction, perforation, and cancer.

Treatment Approaches

Treatment options for GI tract conditions vary depending on the specific condition and its severity. They may include medication, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery. A combined gastroscopy and colonoscopy is often used to diagnose these conditions and guide treatment decisions.

Alternatives to Surgery

Non-surgical treatment options include dietary changes, medication, and other types of endoscopic procedures. However, a combined gastroscopy and colonoscopy is often the most effective way to diagnose and treat many GI tract conditions.

Service Overview

A combined gastroscopy and colonoscopy is a comprehensive procedure that allows doctors to examine the entire GI tract in one session. It is performed under sedation and typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes. The procedure can help diagnose a variety of conditions, guide treatment decisions, and in some cases, treat conditions by removing polyps or taking biopsies.

Benefits and Risks of Combined Gastroscopy and Colonoscopy

The main benefit of this procedure is its ability to diagnose and sometimes treat conditions affecting the GI tract. However, like all procedures, it carries some risks, including bleeding, infection, and perforation of the GI tract.

Preparation for Surgery

Preparation for the procedure includes fasting and taking a laxative or special cleansing solution to clear the bowel. Patients should also inform their doctor about any medications they are taking and any allergies they have.

Pre-surgery Procedures and Checks

On the day of the procedure, the doctor will explain the procedure and obtain the patient's consent. Blood tests may be required, and medications can be given by vein if needed.

Step-by-Step Guide to Combined Gastroscopy and Colonoscopy

1. The patient is given a sedative to help them relax.
2. The gastroscope is inserted through the mouth and passed into the stomach and duodenum.
3. The doctor examines these areas and may take biopsies if needed.
4. The gastroscope is removed, and the colonoscope is inserted through the rectum and moved through the colon.
5. The doctor examines the colon and may remove polyps or take biopsies if needed.
6. The colonoscope is removed, marking the end of the procedure. ### Postoperative Care After the procedure, patients may feel drowsy and should arrange for a ride home. They may also experience minor discomfort or bloating, which usually resolves within a few hours. ### Recovery and Rehabilitation Recovery from a combined gastroscopy and colonoscopy is typically quick, with most patients able to return to their normal activities the next day. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to discuss the results and any necessary treatment. ## References
7. One Ashford Hospital. Combined Gastroscopy & Colonoscopy. [https://www.onehealthcare.co.uk/treatments/combined-gastroscopy-colonoscopy/]
8. Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. Combined Upper GI Endoscopy and Colonoscopy. [https://www.hey.nhs.uk/patient-leaflet/combined-upper-gi-endoscopy-and-colonoscopy/]
9. Healthline. Colonoscopy and Endoscopy at the Same Time: What to Expect. [https://www.healthline.com/health/colonoscopy-and-endoscopy-at-the-same-time]
10. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Understanding Upper Endoscopy and Colonoscopy. [https://www.dana-farber.org/health-library/understanding-upper-endoscopy-colonoscopy]
11. Healthdirect Australia. Upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy. [https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/surgery/upper-gi-endoscopy-and-colonoscopy]

• One Ashford Hospital. Combined Gastroscopy & Colonoscopy. [https://www.onehealthcare.co.uk/treatments/combined-gastroscopy-colonoscopy/]
• Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. Combined Upper GI Endoscopy and Colonoscopy. [https://www.hey.nhs.uk/patient-leaflet/combined-upper-gi-endoscopy-and-colonoscopy/]
• Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Understanding Upper Endoscopy and Colonoscopy. [https://www.dana-farber.org/health-library/understanding-upper-endoscopy-colonoscopy]
• Healthdirect Australia. Upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy. [https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/surgery/upper-gi-endoscopy-and-colonoscopy]