Endoscopy
An endoscopy is a procedure where parts of inside your body are examined using an optical viewing instrument. An endoscopy procedure may be ;
- through the mouth into the stomach (gastroscopy)
- through the anus into the large bowel (colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy)
- through the the nose into the lungs (bronchoscopy)
- used to remove a small sample of tissue so it can be checked for cancer cells (biopsy)
Another procedure performed by our endoscopy team is an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to examine the tubes that drain bile from your liver and digestive juices from your pancreas. This procedure may be completed in a Radiology procedure room to use the x-ray machine.
The Endoscopy Unit is part of the national bowel screening service which diagnoses early detection of bowel cancer in patients aged between 58 and 74. This investigation is aimed at finding and removing any small bowel growths, called polyps that could eventually turn into cancer.
A team of Consultants in Gastroenterology, Colorectal, Respiratory and Nurse Endoscopists perform procedures within our units. All procedures and operators are closely monitored for quality, safety and patient experience according to the principles outlined by the Joint Advisory Group (JAG) endoscopy standards.
We also offer capsule endoscopy and take part in trials for new and developing technologies being led by the National Endoscopy Programme for Wales.
Why may you be referred for an endoscopy?
The most common use of endoscopy is to investigate symptoms that are causing you discomfort or concern. An endoscopy might be recommended to investigate the following symptoms:
- difficulties swallowing or pain when swallowing (dysphagia)
- persistent abdominal pain
- chest pain that is not caused by heart-related conditions
- persistent nausea (feeling sick) and vomiting
- unexplained weight loss
- vomiting blood
- persistent diarrhoea