Common indications for upper gastro-intestinal tract endoscopy in ECWA Hospital, Egbe, Nigeria: A preliminary report

Abstract

Background: Upper gastrointestinal tract endoscopy is a visual examination of the upper intestinal tract using a lighted, flexible  fibreoptic or videoscope. Common reasons for upper gastrointestinal tract endoscopy include ulcers (benign and malignant), intestinal bleeding, oesophagitis and heartburn, gastritis etc. This study is therefore to examine the common indications for upper gastrointestinal tract endoscopy at ECWA hospital, Egbe. Kogi state.

Aim: To examine the common indications for upper gastrointestinal tract endoscopy in ECWA hospital, Egbe. Kogi state.

Methodology: A review of the indications for upper gastrointestinal tract endoscopy was undertaken to cover a six-month period from August 2004 to January 2005. The endoscopy register of the operating theatre was examined over this period. The biodata of the patients who underwent the procedure over this period was reviewed. The indications for which they underwent this procedure was also determined.

Results: A total of 49 patients had upper gastro-intestinal tract endoscopy done on them during the period under review. The endoscopy indication was diagnostic in all patients. 20 of the patients were males (40.8%) while 29 were females (59.2%). Peptic ulcer disease, 29 patients (59.1%); gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, 9 patients (18.4%); gastric cancer, 3 patients (6.1%); chest pain, 2 patients (4.1%); anxiety neurosis, 2 patients(4.1%); dysphagia, 1 patient (2.0%); gastritis, 1 patient (2.0%); severe anaemia, 1 patient (2.0%); and upper gastro-intestinal tract bleeding, 1 patient (2.0%).

Conclusion: The common indications for upper gastro-intestinal tract endoscopy in ECWA hospital, Egbe is similar to those of other centres in Nigeria.