22 March 2019 What is an upper GI endoscopy? Upper GI endoscopy (or esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is an examination that enables us to analyse: The inside of the oesophagus; The inside of the stomach; The inside of the initial portion of the small intestine (duodenum). How is an upper GI endoscopy performed? Upper GI endoscopy is performed with the patient lying on their left side. A long, flexible tube measuring around 10 mm in diameter, called an endoscope , is introduced through the mouth. It has a video camera at one end that transmits amplified, high-definition images to a monitor in the room where the scan is being performed. The doctor can use this to examine the inside of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum as the endoscope passes through them. The endoscope also has components that enable it to painlessly collect tissue fragments ( biopsy ) and treat various types of lesions (for example, polyps and ulcers). The progression of the endoscope through the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum may cause some discomfort or even vomiting , although as a general rule the examination is well tolerated. However, it is possible to perform this examination under anaesthesia , which significantly reduces the discomfort that can be associated with it. Anaesthesia does not mean the patient has to be admitted to hospital , and they will be free to leave the site shortly after the examination has been completed. However, if you choose to have the examination carried out under anaesthesia, you should be accompanied by someone who can assist you, if necessary. How long does upper GI endoscopy take? Upper GI endoscopy takes less than 5 minutes on average. However, it may take longer, especially if there is a need for any additional procedures. After completion of an examination performed under anaesthesia, it will be necessary to wait a while until recovery is complete. This period should be spent resting in a place specifically provided for this purpose. The person may then leave the hospital. What limitations does upper GI endoscopy have? Upper GI endoscopy is a technique that can miss lesions and diagnoses , even when the examination is carried out correctly. Barium contrast X-ray may be considered as an alternative and/or supplementary examination. However, it is not as informative as an upper GI videoendoscopy, and does not allow for the carrying out of biopsies. Are there any side effects, risks or complications associated with upper GI endoscopy? The risks associated with upper GI endoscopy are rare , but they do exist, as with any other examination in which devices or medicinal products are used. The incidence of these risks varies in accordance with each individual case, and depends on any drugs or additional procedures that may need to be carried out. These risks include: Infection; Dental trauma; Complications arising from pre-existing diseases or adverse reactions to the medicinal products that have been administered. Other possible complications that may in some cases require hospital admittance, surgical treatment and/or transfusion, include: Perforation (on average 1 case in every 10 000); Bleeding (on average 1 case in every 100). In order to reduce the risk of complications it is essential the physician is informed of: Allergies; Other pre-existing conditions; Ongoing treatments. At the hospitals and clinics of the Hospital da Luz network, there are gastroenterology specialists who can diagnose and treat digestive diseases and carry out any examinations that may be necessary. This article was written with the support of physicians and other clinical professionals from the Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
