Endoscopy FAQs

Endoscopy FAQs

What is endoscopy?

Endoscopy is a medical procedure used to view the digestive tract, and other internal organs, without an operation. Using an endoscope (a thin rubber tube with a lighted camera attached), the internal body structures can be seen enlarged on a video monitor by the physician.

Where is the endoscope inserted?

The endoscope can be inserted through the mouth (upper endoscopy or EGD), or through the rectum (colonoscopy)

Why is an endoscopy performed?

It is done to diagnose the cause of abdominal pain, acidity, gas, loss of appetite or weight, change in bowel habits, ‘piles’ (hemorrhoids) and bleeding. Diseases such as ulcers, esophageal, stomach or bowel cancer, polyps and colitis are easily diagnosed using endoscopy. Endoscopy can also be used to treat certain conditions.

Can I get both consultation and endoscopy done on the same day?

If you wish to have an endoscopy done, it is better to call earlier and schedule an appointment. Walk-in endoscopy can also be done, but only on days with lighter schedules.

How should I prepare for a colonoscopy?

Detailed instructions will be given at the hospital at the time of scheduling, along with the medicines required to do the bowel preparation. You should be on clear liquids (water, Sprite, black tea/coffee, clear juice without pulp) for 24 hours prior to colonoscopy, starting from the previous morning. That afternoon, you may take the prescribed laxative at home. You should arrive at the hospital next morning, at least an hour before your appointment.

Do I need to starve before an endoscopy?

You should not have eaten solid food for at least 8 hours prior to upper endoscopy. However, you may have water or black tea/coffee up to 2 hours prior to the procedure.

Are there any limitations after endoscopy?

Since it is done under IV sedation, you should not drive a motor vehicle for 24 hours after the procedure. There is no restriction on diet.

Is sedation mandatory?

No. In fact, the majority of endoscopies in India are done without sedation. However, it is much more comfortable to undergo the procedure under light IV sedation, which incidentally is the accepted standard in America.

What is a screening colonoscopy?

It is done on healthy persons over age 50, looking for polyps (small growths on the bowel wall) which are the earliest form of colon cancer. One out of 3-4 people over age 50 have polyps, which are silent, without symptoms. Removal of polyps at colonoscopy will greatly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, which is the no.2 cause of cancer deaths worldwide, and one of the few genuinely preventable cancers. Countries like America, Europe, Singapore and China are already doing it as part of their routine health check-up at age 50.

What is special about endoscopy at Sunrise Hospital?

• At Sunrise Hospital, we believe that all endoscopic procedures should be painless and free from discomfort, and this has been incorporated into our policy. We have an elaborate 12-point mission statement precisely outlining how we will treat our patients, and maintain protocols conforming to international standards.
• We take great care to ensure privacy and comfort of our patients at every step
• We perform endoscopy at Sunrise hospital under IV sedation
• Our gastroenterology staff nurses and technicians are specially trained to ease anxiety and relax our patients by providing a safe, clean, private and serene atmosphere in our endoscopy suite that is equipped with the latest technology.
• For those requiring a colonoscopy, we let our patients undergo their bowel preparation in the privacy of their own home.
• Most of our patients are able to arrive from their home just one hour prior before their endoscopy appointment, and are able to go home and have normal diet within an hour of completion of the procedure.
• If required, we can arrange for admission to the hospital for performing endoscopy
• Our staff nurses routinely call our patients at their home prior to and after the procedures, to ensure that they are comfortable, and to clarify doubts if any.

How can I get an endoscopy done at Sunrise hospital?

You may see Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, Dr  Joby Augustine or Dr Jiffy Rasak in consultation and then get scheduled for endoscopy.

For Gastroenterology appointments, please call Sunrise hospital at:

0484 2660004 or 9946001005.

For direct booking (endoscopy): please call 96-33-954446.