If your doctor has recommended an endoscopy or gastroscopy, you are likely looking for a convenient and safe place to have it performed. We understand that the preparation and the procedure itself may generate doubts and some anxiety.
Therefore, if you live in Brisas del Golf or in the Panama East area, we have prepared this complete guide. Here, we will explain everything you need to know about the procedure and how we at Hospital Brisas make it simpler, safer, and closer to you.
What is an Endoscopy and Why is it So Important?
An upper digestive endoscopy, also known as gastroscopy, is a key study for diagnosing problems in the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine. An endoscope, which is a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the tip, is used to see the inside of your digestive system in real time.
This procedure is essential to find the cause of symptoms such as:
Persistent abdominal pain
Heartburn or chronic reflux
Difficulty swallowing
Nausea or vomiting
Digestive bleeding
The Advantage of Having Your Endoscopy at Hospital Brisas
Choosing where to have this study done is important. At our hospital, we offer you:
Technology and Safety: We perform the procedure under sedation, administered by a specialist physician. This means that you will be asleep, comfortable, and will not feel any discomfort. We use modern equipment to obtain clear images and an accurate diagnosis.
Expert Physicians: Our studies are performed by specialist physicians in Gastroenterology, guaranteeing the highest quality and safety.
Convenience: Forget about traffic and long commutes. Our location in Brisas del Golf allows you to access a first-class health service without going far from home.
Practical Guide for Your Procedure
We want you to come calm and well prepared. Here we explain the process step by step:
1. The Preparation (The day before):
Diet: You should follow a liquid or soft diet the day before the study.
Fasting: It is crucial that you do not eat or drink anything (not even water) for at least 8 hours before the procedure. This ensures that the stomach is empty and everything can be visualized correctly.
Medications: Inform our staff about the medications you take. You may need to suspend some, such as anticoagulants, days before.
2. The Day of the Procedure:
Companion: You must come with a responsible adult who can take you home. Due to the sedation, you will not be able to drive for the rest of the day.
The Process: We will accommodate you in our procedure room, the anesthesia specialist will administer the sedation, and you will fall asleep. The study lasts between 15 and 20 minutes.
Recovery: You will wake up in our recovery area, where our nursing staff will take care of you until you are ready to go home, approximately one hour later.
3. After the Procedure: It is normal to feel a little gas or a slight discomfort in the throat. You can return to your normal diet once you feel fully awake, unless your doctor gives you another indication.
Perform your endoscopy with the safety and convenience you seek.