This page will give you information about an upper GI endoscopy. If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant health professional.
What is an Upper GI Endoscopy?
An upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy is a procedure to look at the inside of your oesophagus (gullet), stomach and duodenum using a flexible telescope (see figure 1). This procedure is sometimes known as a gastroscopy.
The Procedure
What Does an Upper GI Endoscopy Involve?
An upper GI endoscopy usually takes about 10 minutes.
If appropriate, the endoscopist may offer you a sedative to help you to relax.
The endoscopist will place a flexible telescope (endoscope) into the back of your throat and down into your stomach. From here the endoscope will pass into your duodenum.
The endoscopist will be able to look for problems such as inflammation or ulcers. They will be able to perform biopsies and take photographs to help make the diagnosis.
What Complications Can Happen?
- Sore throat
- Allergic reaction
- Breathing difficulties or heart irregularities
- Infection
- Making a hole in your oesophagus, stomach or duodenum
- Damage to teeth or bridgework
- Bleeding
- Incomplete procedure
Summary
An upper GI endoscopy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem with the upper part of your digestive system.
Consultants and Clinic Times
Ms Sala Abdalla
Specialities
Miss Serena Ceraldi
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Mr Francesco Di Maggio
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Professor Annette Fritscher-Ravens
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Gastroenterology
Dr Ahmed Kadir
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Gastroenterology, Paediatrics
Dr Andrew Poullis
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Gastroenterology
Professor Marcus Reddy
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