Endoscopic Gastrointestinal Surgery refers to a minimally invasive surgical procedure that utilizes an endoscope to diagnose, treat, and operate on various conditions or diseases affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The GI tract includes the organs responsible for digestion, such as the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and colon.
During the procedure, a flexible, slender tube with a light and camera at its end, known as an endoscope, is inserted into the body through small incisions or natural body openings. This enables visualization and examination of the internal structures of the GI tract, allowing surgeons to perform surgical interventions without the need for larger incisions associated with traditional open surgery.
Endoscopic gastrointestinal surgery offers several advantages over conventional surgery, including reduced pain, shorter recovery time, decreased risk of complications, minimal scarring, and faster return to normal activities. It is commonly used for various conditions like gastrointestinal bleeding, polyp removal, tumors, strictures, bile duct disorders, and other abnormalities in the GI tract.
The endoscope may also be equipped with specialized instruments that enable surgeons to carry out therapeutic procedures such as tissue sampling (biopsy), cauterization, removal of lesions or tumors, dilation of narrow areas, and placement of stents to keep blocked areas open. These procedures are performed under general anesthesia or sedation, and the patient's safety and comfort are ensured throughout the duration of the surgery.
Overall, endoscopic gastrointestinal surgery maximizes the benefits of minimally invasive techniques by providing effective diagnostic and treatment options for a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions, leading to improved patient outcomes and quality of life.
