Name of the Procedure:

Esophagoscopy, flexible, transoral; with control of bleeding, any method
Common name(s): Esophagoscopy, Endoscopy of the esophagus

Summary

An esophagoscopy is a procedure in which a flexible tube known as an endoscope is passed through the mouth and into the esophagus to visualize the inner lining. This specific procedure includes controlling any bleeding detected in the esophagus using various methods.

Purpose

The procedure addresses issues such as esophageal bleeding, which can result from conditions like esophageal varices, ulcers, or other lesions. The main goal is to diagnose the cause of the bleeding and control it effectively to prevent further complications.

Indications

• Persistent or severe esophageal bleeding
• Symptoms such as vomiting blood or blood in the stool
• Diagnosed conditions like esophageal varices, ulcers, or tumors
• Unexplained anemia or weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

Preparation

• Patients are typically required to fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments may be necessary, particularly for blood thinners.
• Pre-procedure assessments may include blood tests, imaging studies, and a review of medical history.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned, usually lying on their left side.
2. A sedative or anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort.
3. The flexible endoscope is gently inserted through the mouth and guided down the throat into the esophagus.
4. The esophagus is carefully examined for any sources of bleeding.
5. Once bleeding is identified, various methods such as cauterization, clipping, or injection can be used to control it.
6. The endoscope is then withdrawn, and the patient is monitored as they recover from sedation.

Tools Used: Flexible endoscope, cauterization tools, clips, injection needles, etc.
Anesthesia: Conscious sedation or light general anesthesia

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30-60 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Gastroenterologist or endoscopist
• Nursing staff
• Anesthesiologist (if deep sedation or general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Sore throat, mild discomfort, bloating
• Rare risks: Perforation of the esophagus, infection, adverse reactions to sedation or anesthesia, prolonged bleeding
• Possible Complications: Perforation, aspiration, stricture formation

Benefits

• Immediate control of esophageal bleeding
• Prevention of further complications related to blood loss
• Diagnosis and treatment of esophageal conditions
• Symptomatic relief and improved quality of life

Recovery

• Post-procedure monitoring for a few hours
• Avoid eating or drinking until the gag reflex returns (usually within 1-2 hours)
• Mild dietary restrictions for the first 24 hours
• Follow-up appointments to monitor the condition and confirm the effectiveness of treatment
• Most patients can resume normal activities within a day

Alternatives

• Medications to manage symptoms non-invasively
• Radiological interventions like angiographic embolization
• Surgery if endoscopic treatment is not successful or feasible

Pros of Esophagoscopy: Minimally invasive, direct visualization and treatment, quick recovery
Cons of Alternatives: Higher invasiveness, longer recovery times, potentially lower diagnostic accuracy

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient might feel pressure but typically no pain due to sedation. Afterward, a sore throat and mild discomfort are common. Pain management includes over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods to ease swallowing.