Upper GI endoscopy (EGD) is a non-surgical procedure used to examine the upper digestive tract. This procedure involves inserting an endoscope (a flexible tube with a lighted camera at the end) through the mouth and throat and into the esophagus, thus allowing the doctor to visualize the stomach and the upper intestine. This procedure can diagnose numerous digestive problems and retrieve biopsies to determine if you have non-cancerous or cancerous growths.
Why is Upper GI Endoscopy Done?
Upper GI endoscopy is the most effective means of evaluating the health of the upper digestive tract. It allows the surgeon to diagnose the root cause of abdominal pain and cramps, nausea/vomiting, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, problems swallowing, and other problems. The endoscope allows the surgeon to visualize the duodenum, stomach, and esophagus, which allows them to identify abnormalities, precancerous growths, and the potential signs of cancer.
Reasons for Upper GI Endoscopy:
- Diagnose and treat conditions related to the upper gastrointestinal tract
- Diagnose the root cause of persistent heartburns, bleeding, problems swallowing, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss
- Identify underlying conditions, such as celiac disease, narrowing esophagus, precancerous abnormalities, inflammation, ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and cancer
- Retrieve biopsies to test tissues and growths for celiac disease, gastritis, and cancer
- Remove polyps and other growths to prevent cancer
Your Upper GI Endoscopy Procedure
You must not eat or drink anything, not even water, for 8 hours before your upper GI endoscopy. You must fast before the procedure to ensure the endoscope has a clear visual field and minimize the likelihood of vomiting. When you arrive at the medical center, we ensure you are fasting adequately for the procedure. Your vitals will also be taken, and you may have to answer certain questions about your health and symptoms.
You will have to lie down on your side for the procedure. The surgeon will administer a topical anesthetic to numb your throat and ensure comfort. The endoscope is carefully inserted into your mouth and driven into the esophagus to examine the lining. The surgeon may also pump air into your stomach to improve the visualization. The entire procedure takes 15 to 20 minutes, but you’re asleep throughout, so there’s no pain or discomfort.
Recovery After Upper GI Endoscopy
You might feel bloated and experience some abdominal cramping because of the air introduced into your stomach. Endoscopy is an extremely safe, non-surgical procedure, so there are no harsh side effects or complications. You should avoid work and strenuous workouts for the rest of the day, but you can resume most of your daily activities the next day. If a biopsy is taken, you should receive the results within 96 hours.
Schedule an Appointment
Ahuja Bariatric & Beyond is a state-of-the-art medical center led by Dr. Naresh Ahuja, the first fellowship-trained surgeon to develop a comprehensive multidisciplinary weight loss surgery program in southern Illinois. Dr. Ahuja takes a proactive approach to help you remain healthy and cancer-free. He also ensures your upper GI endoscopy is painless and comfortable. Please schedule an appointment to learn more about upper GI endoscopy in Mount Vernon.
