gastroscòpia

Gastroscopia, also known as an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a medical procedure used to examine the upper part of the digestive tract. This includes the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine, known as the duodenum. The procedure involves the insertion of a flexible, thin tube called an endoscope into the body. This endoscope has a camera and a light source at its tip, allowing the doctor to visualize the internal lining of these organs on a monitor.

Gastroscopia is performed for several reasons. It can help diagnose the cause of symptoms such as upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, or bleeding from the digestive tract. It is also used to detect and monitor conditions like ulcers, inflammation (gastritis or esophagitis), polyps, and cancerous or precancerous changes. During the procedure, small tissue samples, called biopsies, can be taken for further examination under a microscope. In some cases, minor therapeutic interventions, such as removing polyps or stopping bleeding, can also be performed using instruments passed through the endoscope.

Before the procedure, patients are typically required to fast for several hours to ensure the stomach is empty. Sedation is usually administered to help the patient relax and minimize discomfort. The procedure itself typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes. After recovery from sedation, most patients can resume their normal activities.