Endoscopy can help identify a range of conditions affecting the upper or lower digestive tract. Depending on the procedure, doctors may detect inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, narrowing, polyps, abnormal growths and certain cancers. Upper GI endoscopy can help evaluate conditions involving the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum, while colonoscopy examines the colon and rectum. During the procedure, tissue samples can be collected for biopsy, which may provide additional information about inflammation, infection or abnormal cells.

Both procedures use a flexible camera to examine the digestive tract, but they assess different areas. An upper GI endoscopy is performed through the mouth to examine the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. A colonoscopy is performed through the rectum to examine the colon and rectum. Preparation also differs: colonoscopy generally requires bowel cleansing beforehand, while preparation for an upper endoscopy usually involves fasting. The procedure recommended depends on your symptoms and which part of the digestive system needs evaluation.

Preparation depends on the type of endoscopy and the reason for the procedure. For an upper GI endoscopy, you will generally be asked to avoid eating and drinking for a specified period beforehand so the stomach is sufficiently empty. Colonoscopy requires bowel preparation to clear the colon, usually involving dietary restrictions and a prescribed bowel-cleansing solution. Your doctor will also advise you about medicines, particularly blood thinners and medicines that affect blood sugar. Follow the specific preparation instructions provided by your healthcare team.

Yes. Endoscopy is not limited to looking for the cause of symptoms. During the same procedure, specialists can perform certain treatments when appropriate. These may include removing polyps, controlling bleeding, widening narrowed areas, retrieving objects and taking tissue samples for biopsy. Certain advanced endoscopic procedures can also address problems involving the bile ducts and pancreas. This ability to diagnose and treat through the same procedure can sometimes reduce the need for more invasive interventions.

Recovery depends on the type of procedure and whether sedation was used. After an upper endoscopy or colonoscopy, you may experience temporary bloating, gas, a mild sore throat or abdominal discomfort. If sedation was given, you will usually need someone to take you home and should follow instructions about driving, work and other activities. Most people resume normal activities relatively quickly. Severe or persistent abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, significant bleeding or other concerning symptoms should be reported to your healthcare team promptly.

Advanced GI endoscopy may be worth discussing when a digestive condition requires more specialised evaluation or treatment than a routine endoscopy can provide. Depending on the clinical situation, advanced procedures may be used to investigate or treat complex problems involving the bile ducts, pancreas, gastrointestinal bleeding, difficult-to-remove lesions or narrowed sections of the digestive tract. Whether an advanced procedure is appropriate depends on your diagnosis, symptoms, previous test results and overall health. A gastroenterologist can explain the potential benefits, risks and alternatives.