Exploring the Differences Between Sleep Endoscopy and Non-Sleep Endoscopy for Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

South Korea is recognized as one of the countries with the highest incidence of gastric cancer globally. According to the National Cancer Information Center, as of 2020, there were 247,952 reported cases of cancer in the country, with gastric cancer constituting approximately 9% of the total cancer cases, presenting a significant health concern. Given this situation, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy plays a crucial role in the early detection and prevention of gastric cancer.

 

Major Causes of Gastric Cancer and Risk Factors Associated with Gastric Cancer

One of the reasons for the relatively high incidence of gastric cancer in Korea is attributed to the dietary habits of Koreans. Particularly, soup-based dishes, often referred to as the nation's soul food, are known for their salty nature, causing inflammation in the gastric mucosa and potentially elevating the risk of gastric cancer. Additionally, Helicobacter pylori infection, smoking, alcohol consumption, and family history are recognized as risk factors associated with gastric cancer.

 

Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is an essential tool for early detection and prevention of gastric cancer.

 

Major Causes of Gastric Cancer and Risk Factors Associated with Gastric Cancer

One of the reasons for the relatively high incidence of gastric cancer in Korea is attributed to the dietary habits of Koreans. Particularly, soup-based dishes, often referred to as the nation's soul food, are known for their salty nature, causing inflammation in the gastric mucosa and potentially elevating the risk of gastric cancer. Additionally, Helicobacter pylori infection, smoking, alcohol consumption, and family history are recognized as risk factors associated with gastric cancer.

 

Significance and Types of Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is gaining attention as a method to detect gastric cancer early. This procedure involves using an endoscope to directly observe and perform tissue examinations on the esophagus, stomach, and duodenal mucosa. It aids in the early detection of inflammation, ulcers, polyps, and cancer. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy can be categorized into sleep endoscopy and non-sleep endoscopy.

 

Sleep Endoscopy vs. Non-Sleep Endoscopy

Sleep Endoscopy: Conducted after administering a sedative, the procedure lasts approximately 3 to 40 minutes. It is recommended to avoid driving on the day of the examination due to the sedative's effects. Some patients may experience movement during the procedure, making it advisable to decide after consulting with the physician.

 

Non-Sleep Endoscopy: The examination is performed after applying an anesthetic to the throat. The procedure takes about 5 to 10 minutes and is characterized by lower costs compared to sleep endoscopy. As there is no cost for anesthesia in the throat, the examination cost is more affordable. However, unlike sleep endoscopy, symptoms such as pain, foreign body sensation, abdominal pain, and bleeding may occur.

 

Precautions Before and After Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

• Mandatory 8-hour Fasting Before the Examination: No water, tobacco, or alcohol is allowed during this period.
• Choose Easily Digestible Foods for the Previous Day's Meal: Prefer foods like rice porridge and clear soup.
• Caution Regarding Blood Pressure and Diabetes Medications: Take a small amount of water with blood pressure medications in the morning, and diabetes medications should be temporarily halted.
• Consultation Required for Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Users: Individuals taking cardiovascular medications need to consult with the doctor to adjust the endoscopy schedule.

Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is an essential tool for early detection and prevention of gastric cancer. When deciding between sleep and non-sleep endoscopy, it is advisable to consider the patient's characteristics and heed the advice of the physician. Additionally, strict adherence to given guidelines and careful preparation for potential side effects before and after the examination is crucial. Embracing regular upper gastrointestinal endoscopy examinations contributes to the pursuit of a healthy life.