Endoscopy (UGI Endoscopy)

The upper gastrointestinal (UGI) endoscopy is a procedure used to look inside the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine. UGI endoscopy is usually performed in the case of ulcers, inflammation, tumours, infection or bleeding.

UGI endoscopy preparations will be directed by your doctor. He or she will evaluate your medical history and any allergies. You will be asked not to eat or drink anything for 6 to 8 hours before the test. You will have to stop anti-inflammatory and blood thinning medicines at least before a week of the procedure.

The UGI endoscopy procedure will start with administration of an intravenous (IV) sedative. Then, an endoscope is inserted through your mouth and gently moved down to throat into the esophagus, stomach and upper gastrointestinal tract, to look for the problem.

Complications in endoscopy are rare, but there are chances of bleeding and pneumonia. There is also a slight risk that your stomach, esophagus or upper small intestine will get a small hole in it.

The endoscopy procedure will take about 30 to 45 minutes, but it will take 2 hours until the medicines wear off. You are suggested not to drive or operate machinery for at least 12 hours after the procedure and total recovery after endoscopy may take up to 24 hours.