As a parent, you may be worried if your child has been advised to have an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. However, it is a small procedure which helps the doctor look inside your child’s esophagus, stomach and upper small intestine. Your doctor may also perform a biopsy where a small tissue will be taken from the digestive system lining.
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Getting Ready for the Test
Your child must be kept fasting before having an endoscopy. You must prevent your child from having solid food for eight hours prior to the procedure. They can have clear liquids till about two hours before having an endoscopy. Avoid giving any medicines to your child against the doctor’s advice.
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The Procedure
At first, a nurse will explain how the endoscopy will work. In case you have any questions, you can ask the nurse. They will give your child an IV for making them feel relaxed and sleepy.
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The Timing
Your child will have to stay in the hospital for three to four hours but this may extend in certain cases.
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After the Procedure
Once the procedure is over, your child will need one to two hours until the sedatives wear off. They may feel bloated because of the air put in their stomach during the procedure. Once discharged, they should be taken home rather than any other place. Give them only light meals on that day, and follow their doctor’s advice. After they feel well, you can offer them their normal diet.
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Eliminates the Requirement of Surgery
During endoscopy, your child’s doctor can widen their small intestine and esophagus, remove any foreign objects, and control ulcer bleeding. This will eliminate the need for surgery in these conditions.
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Gastroenterologists
A pediatric gastroenterologist will perform the endoscopy. Your pediatrician will be able to provide you with a referral.
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Complications
Complications are extremely rare. Some of them include punctures and bleeding from the lining of the stomach. Your child may feel some mild soreness in their throat after having the gastrointestinal endoscopy.
Dr. Vishesh Dikshit is the Best Pediatric Surgeon in Pune. If you have any problem related to your child’s gastrointestinal condition Book your appointment today with Dr. Vishesh Dikshit at Umarji Mother and Child Care Hospital, Pune.