Temporal Trends in Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: A Comprehensive Audit Comparing the Pre-COVID, COVID, and Post-COVID Eras for Quality Enhancement

Upper gastrointestinal (UGI) endoscopy, vital for diagnosing and managing gastrointestinal diseases, experienced challenges in continuity and training during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study evaluates trends in UGI endoscopy procedures across pre-COVID, COVID, and post-COVID periods at a government tertiary care institute, assessing volumes, common indications and findings, trainee involvement, and service delivery barriers. This retrospective study reviewed 2,165 patient records from January 2018 to February 2023, including demographics, procedural details, indications, findings, and trainee participation. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze trends and service interruptions caused by equipment failures. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, proactive equipment maintenance and crisis response remain essential. Enhancing endoscopy training programs is crucial for maintaining service quality and continuity during healthcare crises. Continuous improvement efforts are important for optimizing patient care and mitigating future disruptions.