Endoscopy is a procedure that allows a doctor to look inside certain body cavities using an endoscope. An endoscope is a hollow, tube-like instrument with a lighted (fiberoptic) end.
There are many different kinds of endoscopy procedures:
Why endoscopy is done
An endoscopy may be done to:
- allow the doctor to see inside organs or structures in the body
- obtain tissue specimens for testing (biopsy)
- remove small polyps or tumours in some cases
- This is only done during certain endoscopy procedures.
- determine the stage (how far cancer has spread and if it is present in other organs and tissues)
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How endoscopy is done
Depending on the part of the body being examined, endoscopy may be done in a doctor’s office, clinic or hospital.
- Preparation depends on the type of procedure being done and may include:
- no special preparation
- fasting overnight
- taking laxatives, having an enema or both
- Local or general anesthetic may be used.
- Drugs to help a person relax during the procedure may be used.
- Depending on the area of the body being viewed, the endoscope can be inserted through:
- an anatomical opening, such as the mouth, anus or urethra
- a small cut or incision
- Instruments can be inserted through a channel in the endoscope to remove small pieces of tissue or an entire growth.
- It may not be possible to remove large growths or tumours.
- Special brushes, snares, forceps or laser beams may be used.
- Cameras or videos can be attached to some endoscopes. They display images on a small monitor for the doctor to see.
- Biopsy samples are sent to the laboratory to be examined under a microscope.
- Care after the procedure depends on the type of endoscopy done.
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Potential side effects
Serious problems from endoscopy are not common. Potential side effects may include:
- pain
- bleeding
- infection
- tearing of the tissue wall
- allergic reaction to anesthetic or sedation
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What the results mean
Biopsy samples are examined to find out if they are cancerous or not.
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What happens if a change or abnormality is found
The doctor will decide whether further tests, procedures, follow-up care or additional treatment are needed.
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Special considerations for children
Being prepared for a test or procedure can reduce anxiety, increase cooperation and help the child develop coping skills. Parents and caregivers can help prepare children by explaining to them what will happen, including what they will see, feel and hear during the test.
- Tell children that they will be going to the hospital for the procedure and what will happen at the hospital.
- Tell children when they will have the procedure and how long it will take.
- The child can bring a favourite toy, doll, pacifier or blanket to the hospital.
- Have books, magazines, games or music to keep the child entertained while waiting for the endoscopy.
- There may be certain restrictions before the procedure, such as:
- not eating solid food for 8 hours before the procedure
- not drinking clear fluids for 3 hours before the procedure
- If the child will have general anesthetic, let the child know:
- They will not feel, hear or see anything during the procedure because of a special sleep medicine.
- They will wake up when it is over.
- If children have local anesthetic and are awake during the procedure, they may feel some pressure or “tugging.”
- The child may feel a burning or stinging if the anesthetic is injected.
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on the age and experience of the child. See the following for more age-specific information on helping children cope with tests and treatment.
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