Combined Gastroscopy & Colonoscopy

Discusses combined gastroscopy and colonoscopy , and in particular what to expect before, during and after the scope. It is the third in the series of four videos on endoscopy and is for patients and the public.

The video discusses how to prepare for a gastroscopy together with a colonoscopy and what to expect during and after the scopes. Preparation for colonoscopy involves taking a laxative to clean the large intestine or colon . Gastroscopy involves the passage of a thin fiberoptic flexible tube with camera through the mouth and is used to visualise the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum ( which is the first part of the small intestine). Colonoscopy involves the passage of a fiberoptic flexible tube with camera, and is used to visualise the large intestine or colon. The scope is inserted through the anus. Both these tests are done under sedation where the patient is asleep during the examination. It usually takes an average of 30 minutes for both examinations. The gastroscopy is done first followed by colonoscopy.

The videos are easy to understand and tries to use everyday language as far as possible. The videos are full of images and follow a standard format of topic objective, word index, content and summary. Each topic covers diagnosis, investigation, management and prevention. Videos are an average of between 5 to 10 minutes. I created the videos, using my over 30 years of experience in managing patients with gut and liver problems . I am a gastroenterologist and hepatologist and was trained in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, and Tokyo and have worked in academia and the private sector.

As the adage goes “A picture is worth a thousand words”. I believe combining images and explanations using blackboards, helps one better understand a medical condition. With knowledge, a person gets a better sense of control, and hence is empowered to make informed decisions.