Panendoscopy: Combined Upper Endoscopy and Colonoscopy

Panendoscopy = upper endoscopy (EGD) + colonoscopy in a single sedation session.

Procedure

1. EGD: Gastroscope via mouth → esophagus, stomach, duodenum. Detects ulcers, inflammation, tumors, varices.
2. Colonoscopy: Colonoscope via rectum → entire colon. Detects polyps, diverticula, colitis, cancer.

Indications

• Iron deficiency anemia / obscure GI bleeding.
• Hereditary cancer syndromes (Lynch, FAP).
• Surveillance for metachronous lesions.
• Unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, change in bowel habits.

Benefits

• Single prep, single sedation, single recovery.
• Complete mucosal visualization of entire GI tract.
• Cost-effective vs. two separate procedures.

Performed under moderate sedation or monitored anesthesia care. Generally safe; risks include perforation, bleeding, sedation reactions.