Upper GI endoscopy, also known as gastroscopy, is a procedure used to examine the upper part of the digestive system. It is performed using a long, flexible tube equipped with a light source and a small camera at its tip.
The endoscope passes through the throat, then the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, allowing the doctor to view these areas clearly on a monitor in real time.
Diagnostic upper GI endoscopy is a safe and effective method for evaluating diseases of the upper gastrointestinal tract. It is a simple procedure that is usually completed within a short time.
Indications for Upper GI Endoscopy
Your doctor may recommend an upper GI endoscopy in cases such as:
- Persistent stomach pain that does not respond to treatment.
- Chronic acid reflux.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Persistent vomiting.
- Unexplained significant weight loss.
- Certain cases of anemia.
- Vomiting blood or passing blood in the stool.
- Black-colored stool.
Therapeutic Procedures Performed During Upper GI Endoscopy
Upper GI endoscopy is not only used for diagnosis. It can also be used to perform several therapeutic procedures, including:
- Band ligation or injection therapy for esophageal varices.
- Placement of a gastric feeding tube.
- Injection therapy for gastric varices.
- Injection, cauterization, or clipping of bleeding ulcers.
- Argon plasma coagulation for bleeding vascular lesions.
- Dilation of esophageal strictures and placement of stents.
- Removal of polyps.
- Endoscopic resection of superficial tumors in the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
- Peroral endoscopic myotomy, or POEM, for patients with achalasia.
- Endoscopic treatment of Zenker’s diverticulum.
- Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy, or G-POEM, for gastroparesis.
- Gastric balloon placement for weight loss.
Procedure Duration and Sedation
Upper GI endoscopy usually takes around 5 to 10 minutes. It is performed under either general or partial sedation, depending on the patient’s condition and the doctor’s assessment.
After recovery from sedation, most patients can return to their normal daily activities on the same day.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should visit your doctor for proper evaluation and to determine the most suitable diagnostic or therapeutic approach.
