Track 6: Upper endoscopy and laparoscopy

Upper Endoscopy and Laparoscopy are both medical procedures, but they serve different purposes and use different techniques. Here's a detailed comparison and explanation of each:

Upper Endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy - EGD)

What It Is

Upper endoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure used to visualize the upper part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).

How It’s Performed

• A thin, flexible tube called an endoscope with a light and camera is inserted through the mouth and guided down the esophagus.
• The camera transmits images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to examine the GI tract.

Uses

• Diagnosis:
  • Detecting ulcers, gastritis, celiac disease, esophageal or gastric cancers.
  • Identifying causes of symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing.
• Therapeutic Applications:
  • Removing polyps.
  • Treating bleeding ulcers.
  • Dilating narrowed areas of the esophagus.

Advantages

• Minimally invasive with minimal discomfort.
• Can be done as an outpatient procedure.
• Allows for biopsy (taking tissue samples) and therapeutic interventions.

Sub Topic: Diagnostic Applications of Upper Endoscopy, Evaluation of gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., dyspepsia, GERD, nausea), Therapeutic Interventions via Upper Endoscopy, Endoscopic dilation for esophageal strictures, achalasia, and stenosis, Capsule endoscopy vs. traditional upper endoscopy for small-bowel imaging, Screening and Preventive Uses, Risks of sedation and potential complications from the procedure.