Endoscopic examinations – gastroscopy and colonoscopy
Available in Budapest and Százhalombatta
Endoscopic examinations are among the most important methods used to investigate gastrointestinal diseases. They allow the gastroenterologist to examine the lining of the oesophagus, stomach, duodenum and colon directly and in detail. If necessary, tissue samples may be taken or certain therapeutic procedures may be performed during the examination.
At SanBer Medical, we perform gastroscopy and colonoscopy while the patient is awake or, based on the patient’s preference and medical assessment, under general anaesthesia.
We understand that an endoscopic examination may cause uncertainty or anxiety. For this reason, we place particular emphasis on detailed information, careful preparation and ensuring that patients understand why the examination is necessary, how it is performed and what they can expect afterwards.
At SanBer Medical, endoscopy is not an isolated procedure but an integral part of gastroenterological assessment and treatment.
What is endoscopy?
During an endoscopic examination, a thin, flexible instrument equipped with a light source and a high-resolution camera is introduced into the section of the gastrointestinal tract being examined.
By viewing the camera image on a monitor, the gastroenterologist can examine the mucosal surface directly. This makes it possible to identify subtle abnormalities that may not be visible, or may only be assessed to a limited extent, using other imaging methods.
Special instruments can be introduced through the endoscope’s working channel. When necessary, this allows:
- tissue sampling, also known as biopsy,
- the removal of polyps,
- the endoscopic treatment of certain types of bleeding,
- additional diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
Endoscopy is therefore not only a diagnostic examination. In certain cases, it also enables treatment to be performed during the same procedure.
Which endoscopic examinations are performed at SanBer Medical?
At SanBer Medical, we perform:
- gastroscopy, also known as upper gastrointestinal endoscopy,
- colonoscopy, also known as lower gastrointestinal endoscopy.
Gastroscopy
During gastroscopy, the lining of the oesophagus, stomach and the first section of the duodenum is examined.
If necessary, targeted tissue samples may also be taken during the examination.
When may gastroscopy be recommended?
Gastroscopy may be recommended in cases including:
- persistent or recurrent upper abdominal or stomach pain,
- heartburn and reflux symptoms,
- difficulty swallowing,
- painful swallowing,
- persistent nausea or recurrent vomiting,
- loss of appetite,
- unintentional weight loss,
- anaemia of unknown origin,
- black stools or suspected upper gastrointestinal bleeding,
- suspected coeliac disease,
- suspected gastric or duodenal ulcer,
- certain cases associated with Helicobacter pylori infection,
- follow-up of a previously diagnosed disease of the oesophagus, stomach or duodenum.
Gastroscopy is not generally used as a routine screening examination in patients without symptoms. However, in certain high-risk conditions, endoscopic surveillance may be recommended following specialist assessment.
What can gastroscopy detect?
Gastroscopy may help detect:
- inflammation of the oesophagus and abnormalities associated with reflux,
- inflammation of the stomach lining,
- gastric and duodenal ulcers,
- sources of bleeding,
- narrowing or strictures,
- certain polyps,
- mucosal abnormalities,
- lesions that may indicate precancerous or cancerous changes.
If necessary, a targeted biopsy or tissue sample may be taken from the abnormal area.
Colonoscopy
During colonoscopy, the lining of the colon is examined using a flexible endoscope.
An important advantage of colonoscopy is that, in addition to direct examination of the mucosa, it enables tissue sampling and, where appropriate, the removal of detected polyps.
Colonoscopy therefore has an important role not only in investigating gastrointestinal symptoms but also in the prevention and early detection of colorectal cancer. Some colorectal cancers develop from polyps, which means that identifying and removing these lesions may have a preventive effect.
When may colonoscopy be recommended?
Colonoscopy may be recommended in cases including:
- colorectal cancer screening,
- a positive faecal occult blood test,
- blood in the stool,
- persistent or recurrent abdominal pain,
- prolonged diarrhoea,
- persistent or recurrent constipation,
- a lasting change in bowel habits,
- iron deficiency or anaemia of unknown origin,
- unintentional weight loss,
- suspected inflammatory bowel disease,
- follow-up of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis,
- a previously detected or removed colorectal polyp,
- an individual or family history indicating increased risk.
Polyp removal and colorectal cancer prevention
Colorectal polyps are growths that develop from the lining of the colon. Most are not malignant, but certain types may develop into colorectal cancer over time.
When appropriate, polyps detected during colonoscopy may be removed as part of the same procedure. The removed tissue is then sent for histological examination.
This is one of the most important advantages of colonoscopy: it can not only identify an abnormality but, in certain cases, may also reduce the risk of cancer by removing the lesion.
How can an endoscopic examination be performed?
At SanBer Medical, endoscopic examinations may be performed while the patient is awake or under general anaesthesia, depending on the type of examination, the patient’s preference and general health, and medical assessment.
Endoscopy while awake
The examination may be performed while the patient is awake. When necessary and medically appropriate, medication may be used to reduce discomfort.
Before the examination, the specialist provides detailed information about what the patient can expect.
Endoscopy under general anaesthesia
When requested and medically appropriate, gastroscopy and colonoscopy may also be performed under general anaesthesia with the involvement of an anaesthesiologist.
The purpose of anaesthesia is to prevent the patient from experiencing discomfort during the examination.
As with any medical procedure, anaesthesia and sedation may involve risks. The level of risk depends on factors including the patient’s general health, existing medical conditions and the method used. Appropriate patient selection, pre-procedure assessment, monitoring and qualified medical personnel are essential elements of safe endoscopic sedation and anaesthesia.
After general anaesthesia
Following an examination performed under general anaesthesia, the patient is monitored in a separate recovery area.
The patient may only leave the clinic once their condition is satisfactory and both the anaesthesiologist and gastroenterologist have approved discharge. A responsible adult escort is required.
Detailed information regarding the necessary arrangements after an examination under general anaesthesia is provided in advance.
What are the possible risks of endoscopy?
Gastroscopy and colonoscopy are generally considered safe procedures. However, as with all medical interventions, complications may occur.
The level of risk depends on the type of examination, the patient’s general health and whether tissue sampling or a therapeutic procedure, such as polyp removal, is performed.
After the examination, temporary symptoms may include
- a scratchy or sore throat following gastroscopy,
- temporary abdominal distension or bloating,
- cramping abdominal discomfort.
In rare cases, more serious complications may occur, including:
- bleeding,
- injury or perforation of the gastrointestinal wall,
- complications associated with the medications or anaesthesia used.
The risk of bleeding or perforation may be higher following therapeutic procedures, such as certain types of polyp removal, than after a purely diagnostic examination.
Before the procedure, the specialist discusses the expected benefits, possible risks and available alternatives with the patient in detail.
How do patients proceed to an endoscopic examination?
At SanBer Medical, gastroscopy and colonoscopy are preceded by a specialist gastroenterology consultation.
This helps ensure that the examination is medically indicated, appropriately selected and can be performed safely.
Gastroenterology consultation
During the consultation, the gastroenterologist:
- reviews the patient’s symptoms and medical history in detail,
- evaluates the available previous medical reports and test results,
- determines the indication for the endoscopic examination,
- discusses the expected benefits of the procedure,
- explains the possible risks,
- discusses the potential consequences of not undergoing the examination,
- explains any alternative examination options,
- checks for possible contraindications,
- provides detailed information about preparation.
The patient therefore does not arrive for an isolated procedure. The endoscopy is performed as the next step in a previously planned gastroenterological diagnostic process.
Before an examination under general anaesthesia
When endoscopy is performed under general anaesthesia, an anaesthetic assessment takes place on the day of the examination.
If the gastroenterologist identifies a potentially higher-than-average anaesthetic risk during the gastroenterology consultation, a separate preliminary consultation with an anaesthesiologist may also be required.
How should you prepare for an endoscopic examination?
Proper preparation is one of the essential requirements for an accurate and safe examination.
Before gastroscopy
The upper gastrointestinal tract must be sufficiently empty at the time of the examination.
Before the procedure, the patient receives detailed instructions regarding how long they may continue eating and drinking and how to take their regularly prescribed medication.
According to current ESGE quality recommendations, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy requires an appropriate clinical indication and proper fasting preparation.
Before colonoscopy
For an accurate examination of the lining of the colon, the bowel must be properly prepared and clean.
Bowel cleansing preparation is therefore required before colonoscopy.
Patients receive detailed written and verbal instructions about the bowel preparation product, eating and fluid intake.
Medication and existing medical conditions
Before the examination, it is particularly important to inform the medical team about:
- all regularly taken medications,
- anticoagulant or antiplatelet treatment,
- medication used to treat diabetes,
- known medication allergies,
- significant heart or lung disease,
- previous abdominal surgery,
- any other significant health condition.
Patients must not stop taking regularly prescribed medication on their own. Any necessary changes must always be discussed with the treating physician or the specialist performing the examination.
What happens after the examination?
Following the endoscopic examination, the gastroenterologist evaluates the findings and informs the patient about the results and the next steps.
If tissue sampling or polyp removal was performed, the final assessment may also require the histology results.
Depending on the findings, the next stage of care may include:
- gastroenterology follow-up,
- medication,
- additional laboratory or imaging examinations,
- evaluation of the histology results,
- follow-up endoscopy,
- referral to another specialist when necessary.
Endoscopy at SanBer Medical
We understand that deciding to undergo gastroscopy or colonoscopy is a significant step for many patients and may be associated with anxiety.
At SanBer Medical, we therefore aim to make every stage of the examination clear, understandable and predictable.
From the initial gastroenterology consultation, through preparation and the endoscopic examination, to the evaluation of any histology results and the planning of further treatment, we provide a coordinated patient pathway.
When necessary, endoscopy may also be performed under general anaesthesia. Following the examination, patients receive appropriate monitoring and detailed information.
Our goal is not simply to perform an examination but to identify the cause of the patient’s symptoms accurately and determine the appropriate next step.
Modern endoscopic diagnostics, experienced specialist care, personalised assessment and patient-centred support are available at SanBer Medical.
Book an appointment for a gastroenterology consultation.
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