Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is used to examine the oesophagus, stomach and upper small intestine using a flexible camera. It may help evaluate persistent abdominal pain, reflux symptoms, swallowing difficulties, ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding. Tissue samples can be collected when indicated.
Colonoscopy examines the large intestine using a flexible endoscope. It may be recommended for selected patients with rectal bleeding, persistent bowel changes, unexplained anaemia or colorectal cancer screening needs. Polyps can sometimes be removed during the procedure.
ERCP is an endoscopic procedure that combines specialised imaging and instruments to diagnose or treat selected conditions affecting the bile and pancreatic ducts. It may be used for bile duct stones, strictures or certain obstructions when an intervention is required.
Endoscopic ultrasound combines flexible endoscopy with ultrasound imaging to examine the gastrointestinal wall and nearby structures, including the pancreas and bile ducts. It may help investigate abnormalities or guide tissue sampling in selected patients.
Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder of gut-brain interaction associated with abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. Management may include dietary modification, stress-related interventions and medication depending on symptom patterns, severity and individual patient needs.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease occurs when stomach contents repeatedly flow backward into the oesophagus, producing symptoms such as heartburn or regurgitation. Management involves appropriate lifestyle changes, acid-suppressing medication and additional investigation when warning symptoms or persistent difficulties occur.
Acid peptic disease includes conditions associated with irritation or ulceration of the stomach and duodenal lining. Evaluation considers medication use, Helicobacter pylori infection and other contributing factors. Treatment may include acid suppression and eradication of infection when indicated.
Inflammatory bowel disease includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which cause chronic inflammation in the digestive tract. Diagnosis may involve endoscopy, biopsy, blood investigations and imaging. Management depends on disease type, activity and complications.
Fatty liver disease involves excess fat accumulation within the liver and may be associated with metabolic risk factors or alcohol use. Evaluation can include blood tests, imaging and assessment of liver fibrosis. Management depends on the cause and severity.
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver and may result from viruses, medications, autoimmune conditions or other causes. Evaluation identifies the underlying condition and extent of liver involvement. Treatment is selected according to the diagnosis and clinical findings.
Gastrointestinal bleeding may originate from the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine or colon. Symptoms can include vomiting blood, black stools or rectal bleeding. Evaluation may involve blood tests, endoscopy and urgent stabilisation depending on the severity of bleeding.
Stones within the bile ducts can obstruct bile flow and cause pain, jaundice or infection. Depending on the patient's condition, ERCP may be used to remove stones or relieve obstruction. Urgent treatment is necessary when significant infection develops.
Pancreatic disorders can cause abdominal pain, digestive difficulties or abnormal imaging findings. Assessment may include laboratory testing, cross-sectional imaging and endoscopic ultrasound. Management depends on the specific diagnosis and may require multidisciplinary specialist care.
Gastrointestinal polyps are tissue growths that may develop within the digestive tract. Some are harmless, while others have potential to become cancerous. Endoscopic examination, removal when appropriate and laboratory assessment help determine subsequent monitoring requirements.