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Indications and contraindications to endoscopy of the esophagus
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Indications for endoscopy of the esophagus
Diagnostic indications: clarification of the localization of the process; visual examination of pathological changes revealed during examination, clarification of their prevalence; control over the effectiveness of treatment (both conservative and surgical).
Therapeutic indications: removal of foreign bodies, small tumors of the stomach or esophagus; sclerotherapy of varicose veins of the esophagus; stop bleeding.
Contraindications to endoscopy of the esophagus
Absolute contraindications: shock, acute disorders of cerebral and coronary circulation, epileptic seizures, asthma attack, atlantoaxial subluxation, esophageal diseases, in which it is impossible to hold an endoscope in the stomach or there is an increased risk of perforation (esophagus burn, scar stricture, etc.).
Relative contraindications should be considered depending on the expected positive results; among such contraindications is the patient's reluctance to endoscopy, coma (unless the patient is intubated), coagulopathy, Center diverticulum, coronary heart disease, thoracic aortic aneurysm, hypertensive crisis, acute inflammatory diseases of the oropharynx, respiratory system, general severe condition of the patient in connection with the presence of concomitant diseases.
It should be noted that if the patient has a disease that poses a direct threat to life, the endoscopy of the esophagus is absolutely justified. Thus, gastroduodenoscopy should be carried out even in patients with myocardial infarction or acute impairment of cerebral circulation when he develops gastrointestinal bleeding, both to identify the cause and extent of bleeding, and to stop it.
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