Endoscopy (Gastroscopy and Colonoscopy)
Endoscopy examines the digestive tract from within using a slim, flexible camera. It is used both to make a diagnosis and to carry out treatments such as removing polyps. Op. Dr. Aydın Dincer holds a surgical endoscopy certificate.
What each examination covers
- Gastroscopy examines the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum.
- Colonoscopy examines the whole of the large bowel and the last part of the small bowel.
- Biopsies can be taken from suspicious areas during either examination.
- Polyps found at colonoscopy can be removed in the same session — the most effective step in preventing cancer.
- Both are usually performed under sedation and are not painful.
Who should have a gastroscopy
Long-standing stomach pain, burning, bloating, difficulty swallowing, unexplained anaemia, reflux that does not respond to medication and weight loss are all indications for gastroscopy.
It is also performed routinely before obesity surgery to assess the lining of the stomach, the presence of a hernia and Helicobacter pylori status.
Colonoscopy and screening
Colonoscopy is the most effective method of screening for colorectal cancer. Because cancer usually develops from polyps over years, finding and removing those polyps prevents the disease from developing.
For people without risk factors, screening generally begins between the ages of 45 and 50. Those with a family history of colon cancer or polyps should start earlier. Blood in the stool, a change in bowel habit and unexplained anaemia require assessment at any age.
Preparing for the examination
Gastroscopy requires at least eight hours of fasting. Colonoscopy requires the bowel to be completely cleared, so a special diet and a bowel preparation solution are used on the preceding day.
Anyone taking blood-thinning medication must agree with their doctor when to stop it. Diabetes and blood pressure medication also need a separate plan.
Key facts
| Gastroscopy duration | About 5–10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Colonoscopy duration | About 20–30 minutes |
| Preparation | 8 hours fasting for gastroscopy; bowel cleansing for colonoscopy |
| Sedation | Usually given |
| Afterwards | No driving on the same day because of sedation |
| Results | Pathology takes a few days where a biopsy is taken |
Frequently asked questions
Is endoscopy painful?
With sedation the examination is not painful and is usually not remembered afterwards. Gastroscopy without sedation can cause gagging, which is reduced with a throat spray.
When can I eat afterwards?
About one to two hours after gastroscopy, once the numbness in the throat has worn off. After colonoscopy, normal eating usually resumes shortly afterwards.
Is the colonoscopy preparation difficult?
Bowel cleansing is the most demanding part of the procedure, but the reliability of the result depends directly on it. With inadequate preparation polyps can be missed and the examination may need to be repeated.
If a polyp is removed, will I need surgery?
Most polyps are removed during the colonoscopy and no further operation is needed. The timing of a follow-up colonoscopy is set according to the pathology result.
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not replace a consultation. The treatment that suits you can only be determined after examination and tests.
Appointments and enquiries
Describe your symptoms and questions briefly; you will receive a reply after review.