What is Upper Endoscopy?

Upper endoscopy lets the doctor examine the lining of the upper part of your gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach and duodenum (first portion of the small intestine).  Your doctor will use a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope, which has its own lens and light source, and will view the images on a video monitor.  It is sometimes referred to as upper GI endoscopy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) or panendoscopy.

Why is Upper Endoscopy Done?

It helps your doctor evaluate symptoms of persistent upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or difficulty swallowing.  It's the best test for finding the cause of bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract.  It's also more accurate than X-ray films for detecting inflammation, ulcers and tumors of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.

A biopsy may be obtained during the procedure.  A biopsy helps the doctor distinguish between benign and malignant tissues.  Biopsies are taken for many resons and the doctor may order one even if cancer is not suspected.  For example, a biopsy is used to test fo Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori), bacteria that cause ulcers.

Upper endoscopy is also used to treat conditions of the upper gastrointestinal tract.  The doctor can pass instruments through the endoscope to directly treat many abnormalities with little or no discomfort.  It is used to stretch a narrowed area, remove polyps, or treat bleeding.

How Should I Prepare?

You should have nothing to eat or drink, including water, for approximately six hours before the examination.  The doctor will tell you when to start fasting.

Tell the doctor in advance about any medications you take.  Discuss any allergies to medications as well as medical conditions, such as heart or lung disease.

Also, alert your doctor if you require antibiotics prior to undergoing dental procedures, because you might need antibiotics prior to upper endoscopy as well.

What Can I Expect During Upper Endoscopy?

The doctor begins by spraying your throat with a local anesthetic or by giving you a sedative to help you relax.  You'll then lie on your side, and the doctor will pass the enodscope through your mouth and into the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.  The endoscope doesn't interfere with your breathing.

What Happens After Upper Endoscopy?

You will be monitored until most of the effects of the medication have worn off.  Your throat might be a little sore, and you might feel bloated because of the air introduced into your stomach during the test.  You will be able to eat after you leave unless the doctor instructs you otherwise.

The doctor generally can tell you your test results five business days after the procedure. 

If you received sedatives, you won't be allowed to drive after the prcedure even though you might not feel tired.  You must arrange for someone to accompany you home because the sedatives might affect your judgment and reflexes for the rest of the day.

What are the Possible Complications of Upper Endoscopy?

Although complications can occur, they are rare when doctors who are specially trained and experienced in this procedure perform the test.  Bleeding can occur at a biopsy site or where a polyp was removed, but it's usually minimal and rarely requires follow-up.  Other potential risks include reaction to the sedative used, complications from heart or lung diseases, and perforation ( a tear in the gastrointestinal tract lining).  It's important to recognize early signs of possible complications.  If you have a fever after the test, trouble swallowing or increasing throat, chest or abdominal pain, tell the doctor immediately.

ASGE - The Source for Colonoscopy and Endoscopy

IMPORTANT REMINDER:
The preceding information is intended only to provide general information and not as a definitive basis for diagnosis or treatment in any particular case.  It is very important that you consult your doctor about your specific condition.