Endoscopy (Upper GI)
Upper GI endoscopy (also called OGD — oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy) is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera is passed through the mouth into the oesophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine (duodenum). It is used to diagnose the cause of heartburn, swallowing difficulty, abdominal pain, vomiting blood, or unexplained anaemia. Biopsies can be taken, H. pylori testing performed, and therapeutic interventions carried out during the same procedure.
How Endoscopy (Upper GI) is performed
- 1
The throat is sprayed with local anaesthetic; mild IV sedation is given.
- 2
The patient lies on their left side; the endoscope is passed gently through the mouth.
- 3
The oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum are systematically examined.
- 4
Biopsy samples are taken from any abnormal areas.
- 5
H. pylori tests (CLO test) are performed if gastric ulcer is suspected.
- 6
Therapeutic interventions (injection for bleeding ulcer, band ligation) are done as needed.
Benefits of Endoscopy (Upper GI)
- ✓Direct, real-time visualisation of the upper GI tract
- ✓Diagnoses peptic ulcers, gastritis, GERD, Barrett's oesophagus, and early cancers
- ✓Biopsies and H. pylori testing in the same session
- ✓Therapeutic capability: stops bleeding, dilates narrowing, removes polyps
- ✓Quick, 15–30 minute procedure with sedation
Preparing for Endoscopy (Upper GI)
- Fast for 6–8 hours (nothing by mouth, including water, from midnight).
- Inform the doctor of all medications, particularly blood thinners and diabetes medicines.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home as sedation is given.
- Remove dentures and contact lenses before the procedure.
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing.
Risks and side effects of Endoscopy (Upper GI)
- Sore throat for 24–48 hours — very common
- Bloating from the air used to inflate the stomach
- Bleeding after biopsy — usually minor
- Perforation of the oesophagus or stomach — very rare
- Aspiration of stomach contents into the lungs — prevented by adequate fasting
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
Recovery after Endoscopy (Upper GI)
- Rest for 1–2 hours in recovery; discharge once the sedation has worn off.
- Do not eat for 1 hour after the procedure; start with soft foods then progress normally.
- Mild throat soreness is normal — warm fluids and lozenges help.
- Do not drive or operate machinery for the rest of the day.
- Biopsy results are typically available within 5–7 days.
Endoscopy (Upper GI) FAQs
Is endoscopy the same as a gastroscopy?
Yes — upper GI endoscopy, OGD, and gastroscopy all refer to the same procedure: camera examination of the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
Will I be awake during the procedure?
Sedation makes you relaxed and drowsy; most patients have little memory of the procedure. You are not fully asleep under general anaesthesia.
Endoscopy (Upper GI) at Iswarya Hospital
Led by Prof. Dr. G. Manoharan, one of India's most distinguished Surgical Gastroenterologists and Liver Transplant Specialists, specializing in advanced surgeries for gastrointestinal, liver, pancreatic, and biliary disorders.
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ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.