Name of the Procedure

Esophagoscopy, Rigid, Transoral; Diagnostic, Including Collection of Specimen(s) by Brushing or Washing When Performed (Separate Procedure)

Summary

An esophagoscopy is a medical procedure in which a rigid tube with a camera, called an esophagoscope, is inserted through the mouth to examine the lining of the esophagus (the tube that connects the throat to the stomach). During the diagnostic process, samples may be collected by brushing or washing to help identify any abnormalities.

Purpose

This procedure is used to diagnose conditions affecting the esophagus such as strictures, tumors, inflammation, and other abnormalities. The goal is to identify the underlying issue causing symptoms like difficulty swallowing, chest pain, or persistent cough, and to collect samples for further testing.

Indications

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Persistent heartburn or acid reflux
• Unexplained chest pain
• Suspected esophageal cancer
• Abnormal findings on barium swallow X-rays
• Persistent cough or hoarseness

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure.
• Medications such as blood thinners may need to be adjusted or paused.
• Pre-procedure diagnostic tests such as blood work may be required.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned lying on their back.
2. An anesthesiologist administers general anesthesia or sedation to ensure the patient is comfortable.
3. A rigid esophagoscope is gently inserted through the mouth and down the throat into the esophagus.
4. The physician visually examines the esophagus's lining and may take samples by brushing or washing the area.
5. Any identified abnormalities are recorded, and samples are sent to a lab for analysis.
6. The esophagoscope is carefully withdrawn.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes, but preparation and recovery time may extend the total time to a few hours.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital’s endoscopy suite or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Gastroenterologist or specialized surgeon
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist
• Registered nurses or endoscopy technicians

Risks and Complications

• Sore throat or minor discomfort post-procedure
• Bleeding from the sample collection sites
• Perforation of the esophagus (rare)
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia
• Infection (rare)

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of esophageal conditions
• Determination of the cause of symptoms like dysphagia or chest pain
• Collection of samples for detailed analysis, leading to targeted treatment

Recovery

• Patients typically stay in a recovery area until the effects of anesthesia wear off.
• Mild throat discomfort or hoarseness may be experienced for a day or two.
• Normal diet can usually be resumed shortly after the procedure, as advised.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss biopsy results and further treatment.

Alternatives

• Flexible esophagoscopy, which involves a flexible tube and may be done without general anesthesia.
• Barium swallow X-ray, useful for initial assessments but less precise.
• Endoscopic ultrasound, providing detailed imaging but also involves sedation.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will be under anesthesia or sedated, so they will not feel discomfort. After the procedure, there might be minor throat pain or discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and staying hydrated.