SERVICES
Paediatric upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy

OVERVIEW

Upper and lower gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopies are important diagnostic tools used to examine the digestive tract of children. Upper GI endoscopy is a procedure where a bendable tube with a camera and light is inserted through the mouth and into the oesophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine. It is used to investigate symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and reflux.

Lower GI endoscopy, also known as a colonoscopy, involves a similar process but examines the colon and rectum. It is used to evaluate symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloody stools, and changes in bowel habits. These procedures can help diagnose various conditions and guide treatment decisions in children, but they do carry some risks and should be performed by experienced healthcare professionals.

When is an upper & lower gastrointestinal endoscopy indicated?

An upper GI endoscopy may be indicated in children with symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, reflux, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained weight loss. It may also be performed to investigate the cause of bleeding in the upper digestive tract.

A lower GI endoscopy or colonoscopy may be indicated in children with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation, rectal bleeding, or unexplained weight loss. It may also be used to screen for colon cancer or to investigate the cause of inflammatory bowel disease.

In addition to diagnosing various conditions, upper and lower GI endoscopies can also be used to treat certain conditions. For example, during an upper GI endoscopy, a doctor may remove polyps or small growths in the digestive tract or perform a biopsy to test for cancer. In a lower GI endoscopy, a doctor may remove polyps or take tissue samples for biopsy.

How is Upper & lower gastrointestinal endoscopy performed?

Upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy procedures are performed in a hospital or outpatient facility, typically by a paediatric surgeon in children. Here is an overview of how these procedures are performed:

Upper GI Endoscopy:

The patient will be given a general anaesthetic
The endoscope (a thin, flexible tube) will be inserted through the mouth and into the oesophagus.
The endoscope will be guided through the stomach and into the upper small intestine.
The doctor will examine the digestive tract, looking for any abnormalities or signs of disease.
If necessary, the doctor may take tissue samples (biopsy) or remove polyps during the procedure.

Lower GI Endoscopy (Colonoscopy):

The patient will have a general anaesthetic.
The endoscope will be inserted through the rectum and guided through the colon.
The doctor will examine the lining of the colon, looking for any abnormalities or signs of disease.
If needed, the doctor may perform a biopsy or remove polyps during the procedure.

Both procedures typically take between 20-60 minutes to complete. The patient will be advised not to eat or drink anything for a certain period before the procedure.

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Dr Mangray, the founder of KZN Specialised Paediatric Surgical Service, and his associates, Dr Ngobese, Dr Govender and Dr Dube-Zvirikuzhe, have a well-established reputation for caring for children right until late adolescence.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQ

1What should my child eat or drink after an upper or lower GI endoscopy?

Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions on what your child should eat or drink after the procedure. Generally, children are advised to start with clear liquids and gradually transition to solid foods.

2How soon can my child resume normal activities after an upper or lower GI endoscopy?

Most children can resume normal activities within a day or two after the procedure. However, your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions based on your child's individual situation.

3How often should my child undergo an upper or lower GI endoscopy?

The frequency of the procedure depends on your child's individual situation and medical history. Your healthcare provider will recommend the appropriate frequency based on your child's condition.