Magazine.

Ask a Nurse: Endoscopy Q: What is endoscopy? A: Endoscopy is an examination by means of an endoscope, an slender, flexible, tubular optical instrument used as a viewing system for examining the upper and lower gastrointestinal tracts. The endoscope can also be used for biopsies and surgical procedures. These examinations are generally carried out at a hospital.

Q: Why would my physician recommend endoscopy? A: Usually your physician would refer you to an internist or general surgeon for an endoscopic examination if you have an upper or lower gastrointestinal complaint or if recurring pain or bleeding occurs.

Q: What kinds of medical conditions are diagnosed using endoscopy? A: Endoscopy is typically used to diagnose or rule out some of the following conditions: inflammation, internal bleeding, diverticulitis, diverticulosis, ulcerative lesions, polyps and other growths.

Q: What do I need to do to prepare for an endoscopic examination? A: In preparation for most endoscopic procedures patients are simply required to have nothing to eat for 4-6 hours prior to the procedure. In the case of a colonoscopy the bowel must be prepped so that the physician can obtain a good view. the gastrointestinal system must be cleansed using medication available by prescription. Eating is prohibited for 24 hours prior to the procedure.

Q: How long will I be at the hospital.

A: An outpatient visit to the hospital for endoscopy usually takes about three hours, although the procedure itself only takes about 20 minutes.

Q: What type of anaesthesia is used for this procedure? A: Our experience shows that it is preferable to use a general anaesthetic, which is administered by an Anaesthetist.

Dr. Wilbert Warner, internal medicine specialist, performs many endoscopic procedures in the new endoscopy suite at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital.

The new medical technology allows the doctor to see internally and allows "minimal invasive'' operations in many cases.

The endoscopy team performing under the direction of Dr. Wilbert Warner. The patient is always the primary focus.