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Endoscopy in Singapore

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Dr Chew Min Heo
Dr Chew Min Hoe

Senior Consultant, General & Colorectal Surgeon

MBBS (Singapore), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh)

If you’ve been experiencing persistent indigestion, occasional heartburn or that uneasy feeling in your stomach that won’t go away, it’s easy to shrug it off and hope it passes. But ongoing discomfort can be a sign that it’s worth getting checked.

An endoscopy allows your doctor to take a closer look at your oesophagus, stomach and upper digestive tract. At our clinic in Singapore, we carry out this procedure with care and precision, keeping you informed at every step and guiding you toward the right treatment with confidence and reassurance.

What Is Endoscopy?

Endoscopy is a medical procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera to examine internal organs. The endoscope transmits real-time images to a monitor, enabling doctors to see and assess the condition of internal structures. This makes it useful for diagnosing digestive issues, monitoring conditions, and in certain cases, performing treatments.

What Is an Endoscopy Used For?

Endoscopy serves several purposes for managing digestive health:
  • Screening: Detect early changes in the digestive tract, including polyps or other growths that may develop into serious conditions.
  • Diagnosis: Identify the cause of symptoms such as abdominal pain, heartburn, difficulty swallowing or blood in stool and collect tissue samples for further analysis.
  • Monitoring: Track existing conditions, such as inflammation, ulcers or polyps, to assess progression or response to treatment.
  • Treatment: Certain procedures can be performed during endoscopy, including removal of polyps, stopping bleeding or widening narrowed passages.

Experiencing acid reflux, blood in your stool, or persistent abdominal pain? Don’t wait—speak with a doctor to see if an endoscopy is right for you.

What Are the Different Types of Endoscopy in Singapore?

Endoscopy can be performed on different parts of the body depending on symptoms and needs. Common types include:

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy examines the full length of the large intestine (colon) and rectum to detect polyps or signs of colorectal cancer. In Singapore, regular colonoscopy screenings are recommended from age 50 for individuals at average risk, helping to identify changes early before they develop into more serious conditions. People with a personal history of polyps, colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal issues, as well as those with a family history of colorectal cancer, may need to start screening earlier and undergo checks more frequently.

Gastroscopy (Upper Endoscopy)

A gastroscopy focuses on the oesophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine. It is commonly used to investigate symptoms such as indigestion, nausea, vomiting and upper abdominal pain. This procedure helps diagnose conditions including stomach or oesophageal cancer and can pinpoint sources of upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

Sigmoidoscopy

A sigmoidoscopy examines the lower part of the colon, specifically the sigmoid colon and rectum. It is useful for investigating symptoms such as constipation, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, rectal bleeding or the presence of polyps. Sigmoidoscopy may also be used to screen for colon and rectal cancer, collect tissue samples for biopsy or remove polyps and haemorrhoids.

Bronchoscopy

A bronchoscopy inspects the airways of the lungs, including the trachea and the bronchi. It helps diagnose conditions such as lung cancer, airway blockages, infections like tuberculosis and pneumonia, and other lung diseases. Therapeutically, bronchoscopy can remove foreign objects, control bleeding or treat tumours with targeted interventions such as laser therapy.

Cystoscopy

A cystoscopy is used to examine the bladder and urethra. It can detect urinary bladder cancer, bladder stones and infections or investigate symptoms such as blood in the urine or frequent urination. This procedure can also treat certain conditions, including the removal of small bladder tumours.

Laparoscopy

A laparoscopy examines the organs inside the stomach or pelvis. It is used to detect abnormalities such as tumours, injuries, internal bleeding, infections, and unexplained pain. It is often recommended when other diagnostic tests, like physical exams, X-rays or CT scans, fail to provide a clear diagnosis. Laparoscopy can also help determine the stage of cancer in abdominal organs, assess the severity and location of injuries and evaluate the extent of internal bleeding.

When Do Doctors Recommend an Endoscopy?

Doctors may recommend an endoscopy to investigate symptoms, monitor existing conditions or screen for potential digestive diseases. The procedure helps provide a clear view of the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for accurate diagnosis and timely management.

Persistent or Unexplained Digestive Symptoms

Endoscopy may be advised if you experience ongoing or unexplained symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, difficulty swallowing, persistent heartburn, nausea, vomiting or blood in the stool.

Investigation of Alarming Symptoms

It is often recommended when there are concerning signs such as unexplained weight loss, anaemia or gastrointestinal bleeding, which require further evaluation.

Follow-up After Previous Treatment

If you have been treated for conditions such as ulcers, polyps or gastrointestinal bleeding, an endoscopy may be used to assess healing and ensure there are no recurring issues.

Screening for Higher-Risk Individuals

People with a family history of colorectal or gastric cancers, or other risk factors, may be advised to undergo endoscopic screening even without symptoms.

Monitoring of Chronic Digestive Conditions

For individuals with known conditions such as gastritis, inflammatory bowel disease or Barrett’s oesophagus, endoscopy helps track disease progression and evaluate how well treatment is working.

What Endoscopy Can Help Assess or Manage?

Endoscopy is a versatile procedure used to evaluate different parts of the digestive tract. It is particularly valuable for identifying colorectal conditions, while also providing important insights into the upper gastrointestinal system.

Oesophageal Conditions

Endoscopy can assess conditions affecting the oesophagus, such as acid reflux, Barrett’s oesophagus, strictures and tumours. These issues may impact swallowing and overall digestive function.

Stomach and Duodenal Conditions

The procedure allows doctors to examine the stomach and duodenum for conditions such as ulcers, gastritis, tumours and sources of gastrointestinal bleeding, enabling accurate diagnosis and management.

Colorectal Conditions

For the lower digestive tract, endoscopy - including colonoscopy - can detect polyps, colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, bleeding and strictures. This supports early intervention as well as ongoing monitoring where needed.

Persistent symptoms like acid reflux, changes in bowel habits, blood in stool or abdominal pain should prompt consultation with your doctor.

What Treatments Can Be Performed During an Endoscopy?

In addition to diagnosing conditions, endoscopy can also be used to perform a range of minimally invasive treatments during the same procedure, reducing the need for separate interventions.

Polypectomy

Polyps can be identified and removed during endoscopy, helping to reduce the risk of them developing into cancer.

Bleeding Control

Endoscopy can be used to treat sources of bleeding, such as ulcers or abnormal blood vessels, helping to stabilise the condition promptly.

Stricture Dilation

Narrowed areas of the digestive tract, known as strictures, can be gently widened to improve swallowing or bowel function.

Foreign Object Removal

If a foreign object has been accidentally ingested, endoscopy allows for safe and controlled removal from the digestive tract.

What to Expect During Endoscopy Procedure in Singapore?

While an endoscopy procedure is straightforward and well-tolerated, certain steps and preparations ensure it is safe and effective. Here’s what typically happens before, during and after your endoscopy:

Preparing for Endoscopy

Proper preparation is important to ensure clear visibility and accurate results. This may include:

  • Fasting for six to eight hours before the procedure
  • Temporary adjustment of certain medications, as advised by your doctor
  • For colonoscopy, following a clear liquid diet and completing a bowel-cleansing regimen

During the Procedure

The procedure is typically quick and performed in a controlled setting for your comfort:

  • Sedation or anaesthesia is given to help you relax
  • The endoscope is gently inserted through the appropriate entry point, depending on the type of procedure
  • The duration varies, usually around 10 to 15 minutes for gastroscopy and 30 to 45 minutes for colonoscopy

After the Procedure

Recovery is usually straightforward, with most people able to go home the same day:

  • You will be monitored until the effects of sedation have worn off
  • Mild throat soreness, bloating or cramping may occur but typically resolves quickly
  • You should avoid driving, operating machinery or making important decisions for the rest of the day

Your doctor will also explain the findings and advise on any follow-up care if needed.

What Are the Possible Risks of an Endoscopy Procedure?

Endoscopy is generally a safe and well-established procedure. As with any medical intervention, there are some risks, but these are uncommon and are typically manageable when identified early. If you experience any unusual or persistent symptoms after the procedure, you should seek medical attention promptly.

Bleeding

Minor bleeding may occur at sites where a biopsy is taken or treatment is performed. This is usually mild and resolves on its own.

Infection

Infections are rare due to strict sterilisation protocols, but they can occasionally occur following the procedure.

Perforation

In very rare cases, a small tear may develop in the lining of the digestive tract. This may require further treatment.

Reaction to Sedation

Mild side effects such as nausea or drowsiness can occur after sedation. Serious reactions are uncommon and are closely monitored during the procedure.

Don’t ignore persistent digestive symptoms. Take control of your gut health and find out if an endoscopy is right for you today.

Why Choose Our Clinic for Endoscopy Screening in Singapore?

Choosing the right clinic for your endoscopy is important for both your comfort and the quality of your care. Our team is dedicated to providing safe, thorough and patient-focused screening in a supportive environment.

Experienced Specialist

Our colorectal specialist had extensive experience in performing endoscopy procedures and managing a wide range of digestive conditions.

Modern Technology

We use advanced equipment to support accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, ensuring clear visualisation throughout the procedure.

Patient-Centred Care

Your comfort and individual needs are prioritised at every stage, with a personalised approach to consultation, procedure and recovery.

Convenient and Affordable

We offer streamlined appointments and supportive care to make the process as smooth and accessible as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Endoscopy in Singapore

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during an endoscopy. Sedation is commonly used to help you stay relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure. Some may feel mild pressure or cramping, but discomfort is generally well-controlled.

Our Endoscopy Doctor

Dr Chew Min Hoe

Senior Consultant, General & Colorectal Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh)

Dr Chew Min Hoe is a Senior Consultant in General and Colorectal Surgery with extensive experience in endoscopy, including both gastroscopy and colonoscopy for screening and diagnostic purposes. With a strong focus on digestive and colorectal health, he provides thorough evaluation and clear guidance, helping patients make informed decisions about their care.

Colorectal Specialist in Singapore - Dr Chew Min Hoe