What is an upper endoscopy?

An upper endoscopy is a procedure that a gastroenterologist can use to examine the inner lining of a patient’s esophagus, stomach, or the first part of the small intestine. The procedure is sometimes also referred to as an EGD. During this procedure, an endoscope is inserted through the mouth and down the throat and into the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. An endoscope is a thin and flexible tube that is equipped with a small light and video camera, capturing footage for the doctor to examine for abnormalities.

There are several reasons a patient may need an endoscopy. If the patient is having problems swallowing, feeling full shortly after beginning to eat, experiencing heartburn, and vomiting or coughing up blood, an upper endoscopy may help the doctor better identify the cause of these symptoms. Upper endoscopies may also be required in order to explore any abnormalities that appear on imaging tests, or as part of an endoscopic ultrasound. The procedure can also be done in conjunction with an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, also known as an ERCP, which is a procedure that uses an endoscope along with x-rays to examine the pancreas and bile ducts. An upper endoscopy procedure can also involve taking biopsies or placing stents. It may also be used in order to perform a cytology test, where a small brush is used to collect cells for further testing. The doctor can also treat several conditions with an upper endoscopy, can dilate a narrowed area, treat bleeding, or remove polyps.

What is an upper endoscopy procedure like?

To prepare for an upper endoscopy, the patient will need to let their doctor know of any medication or supplements they are taking, as well as any allergies they may have to certain medications. Patients may need to stop taking blood-thinning medications several days prior to the procedure and will also need to fast for around six hours beforehand. The patient will also be sedated for the procedure. Upper endoscopies are usually performed as an outpatient procedure and take about fifteen to thirty minutes total.

After the procedure, patients will be monitored for complications and will likely be able to return home after a few hours. Patients may feel bloated or experience cramps due to the air used as part of the procedure. They may also experience numbness in the mouth or throat for a couple of hours post-procedure. A sore throat, cough, or hoarseness is also common after an upper endoscopy, and usually only lasts for a few days. Patients will have a follow-up appointment with their doctor to discuss results.