Therapeutic Endoscopy
Pre-Operative preparation:
As for a general anaesthetic, patients require to fast for 6 hours prior to the examination
Procedure:
The initial part of this procedure is identical to diagnostic endoscopy but it is combined with an intervention to treat an underlying condition. Most commonly this will involve stretching a narrowed area of the gullet but alternatively may involve removal of an abnormality of the lining of the gullet, stomach or duodenum.
If a narrowing or stricture is found this will be stretched (dilated) using either a balloon or a semi-rigid dilator.
If there is an abnormality confined to the lining of the gullet or stomach it may be possible to remove this with the endoscope. The area around the abnormality will be injected with a dilute solution of adrenalin and the abnormal area removed using a snare device.
Sedation:
The procedure is generally performed after the administration of an intravenous sedative.
Post Op:
Following throat spray patients will have to fast for 1 hour. Sedation will require several hours to wear off and patients should not drive or use heavy machinery for 24 hours. Depending upon the nature of the therapeutic procedure performed it may be advised that you should remain fasted for longer than is usual for standard endoscopy.
As with diagnostic endoscopy complications are unusual however there is an increased risk of perforation of the gullet or stomach if a procedure is undertaken this will be explained to you prioir to the procedure.
OPC Code:
G4430
