ENT/Gastroenterology: Esophagoscopy
High-Yield Revision for NEET PG
Esophagoscopy is the visualization of the esophageal mucosa. It is essential for diagnosing structural, inflammatory, and malignant pathologies of the esophagus.
1. Types & Indications
| Type | Clinical Significance |
|---|---|
| Rigid Esophagoscopy | Best for Foreign Body (FB) removal; provides a wider working channel and better control. |
| Flexible (Fiberoptic) | Gold standard for routine diagnostics, biopsy of suspected malignancies, and dilatation of strictures. |
2. NEET PG High-Yield Pearls
- Complication: The most dreaded complication is esophageal perforation. The most common site of perforation is the Cricopharyngeus (UES).
- Signs of Perforation: Post-procedure fever, chest pain, and subcutaneous emphysema (crepitus in the neck).
- Management of Perforation: NPO, intravenous antibiotics, and surgical consultation (immediate repair is often necessary if recognized early).
- Contraindications: Severe cervical spine disease (relative contraindication for rigid esophagoscopy due to mandatory neck extension) and suspected unstable esophageal perforation (unless for urgent repair).
- Zenker’s Diverticulum: Rigid esophagoscopy must be performed with extreme caution in patients with known Zenker’s, as the scope can easily enter the diverticulum instead of the esophageal lumen, leading to perforation.