WHAT IS UPPER GASTROINTESTINAL (GI) ENDOSCOPY?

Upper GI endoscopy also called upper endoscopy, EGD or esophagogastroduodenoscopy is a procedure used to see the lining of the upper GI tract by an endoscope. At Islamabad Gastroenterology Associates facility, we provide state of the art Upper GI Endoscopy services.

WHY DO THEY USE UPPER GI ENDOSCOPY?

The Upper GI endoscopy is used to diagnose and treat conditions that affect the esophagus, stomach, and upper intestine or duodenum.

An Upper GI endoscopy can identify diseases like:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Ulcers
• Inflammation, or swelling
• Barrett’s esophagus, Strictures or narrowing of the esophagus
• Celiac disease
• Blockages
• Check the damages done by harmful chemicals.

During upper GI endoscopy, biopsies are obtained by passing an instrument through the endoscope to get a small piece of tissue to diagnose conditions such as Cancer, Celiac disease, or Gastritis.

An upper GI endoscopy is also used to treat conditions like:

• Bleeding from ulcers, esophageal varices
• Open up strictures
• To Remove objects stuck in the upper GI tract
• Remove polyps
• Place feeding or drainage tubes

WHAT TO DO BEFORE UPPER GI ENDOSCOPY?

Consider following precautions before any endoscopic procedure.

• Consult with Prof. Muzaffar Gill about your allergies, medication history
• You must tell the doctor if you are taking vitamins, supplements especially, Blood thinners, and arthritis, blood pressure or diabetic medicines.
• Do not eat or drink at least 8 hours before any endoscopic test.
• Ask someone to drive you after the test because you may find yourself little sedative after the test

RISKS OF THE UPPER G.I. ENDOSCOPY?

The complications from an upper GI endoscopy are very low. But may include:

Bleeding from the site where tissue samples have been taken or polyp removed

A notch in the lining of your upper GI tract

Sedative reactions like breathing or heart problems

Having following symptoms after an upper GI endoscopy, consult your physician immediately.

• Fever, Chest pain or breathing problem
• Pain in the throat with or without swallowing
• Abdomen pain and vomiting