UPPER ENDOSCOPY
Gastroscopy, OGDS, or OesophagoGastroDuodenoScopy
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WHAT IS UPPER ENDOSCOPY?

Upper Endoscopy (also known as gastroscopy, OGDS, or
esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is a procedure that enables your surgeon
to examine the lining of the esophagus (swallowing tube), stomach
and duodenum (first portion of the small intestine). A bendable,
lighted tube about the thickness of your little finger is placed
through your mouth and into the stomach and duodenum.

WHY IS AN UPPER ENDOSCOPY PERFORMED?

Upper endoscopy is performed to evaluate symptoms of persistent
upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing or
heartburn. It is an excellent method for finding the cause of
bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract. It can be used to
evaluate the esophagus or stomach after major surgery. It is more
accurate than X rays for detecting inflammation, ulcers or tumors of
the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. Upper endoscopy can detect
early cancer and can distinguish between cancerous and non cancerous
conditions by performing biopsies of suspicious areas. Biopsies are
taken by using a specialized instrument to sample tissue. These
samples are then sent to the laboratory to be analyzed. A biopsy is
taken for many reasons and does not mean that cancer is suspected.
A variety of instruments can be passed through the endoscope that
allows the surgeon to treat many abnormalities with little or no
discomfort. Your surgeon can stretch narrowed areas, remove polyps,
remove swallowed objects, or treat upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Safe and effective control of bleeding has reduced the need for
transfusions and surgery in many patients.

WHAT PREPARATION IS REQUIRED?

The stomach should be completely empty. You should have nothing to
eat or drink for approximately 8 hours before the examination. Your
surgeon will be more specific about the time to begin fasting
depending on the time of day that your test is scheduled.
Medication may need to be adjusted or avoided. It is best to inform
your surgeon of ALL your current medications as well as allergies to
medications a few days prior to the examination. Most medications
can be continued as usual. Medication use such as aspirin, Vitamin
E, non steroidal anti inflammatories, blood thinners and insulin
should be discussed with your surgeon prior to the examination. It
is essential that you alert your surgeon if you require antibiotics
prior to undergoing dental procedures, since you may also require
antibiotics prior to gastroscopy.
Also, if you have any major diseases, such as heart or lung disease
that may require special attention during the procedure, discuss
this with your surgeon.
You will most likely be sedated during the procedure and an
arrangement to have someone drive you home afterward is imperative.
Sedatives will affect your judgment and reflexes for the rest of the
day. You should not drive or operate machinery until the next day.

WHAT CAN BE EXPECTED DURING THE UPPER ENDOSCOPY?

You may have your throat sprayed with a local anesthetic before the
test begins and given medication through a vein to help you relax
during the examination. You will be laid on your side or back in a
comfortable position as the endoscope is gently passed through your
mouth and into your esophagus, stomach and duodenum. Air is
introduced into your stomach during the procedure to allow a better
view of the stomach lining. The procedure usually lasts 15 60
minutes. The endoscope does not interfere with your breathing. Most
patients fall asleep during the procedure; a few find it only
slightly uncomfortable.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER UPPER ENDOSCOPY?

You will be monitored in the endoscopy area for 1-2 hours until the
effects of the sedatives have worn off. Your throat may be a little
sore for a day or two. You may feel bloated immediately after the
procedure because of the air that is introduced into your stomach
during the examination. You will be able to resume your diet and
take your routine medication after you leave the endoscopy area,
unless otherwise instructed. Your surgeon will usually inform you of
your test results on the day of the procedure, unless biopsy samples
were taken. These results take several days to return. If you do not
remember what your surgeon told you about the examination or follow
up instructions, call your surgeon's office to find out what you
were supposed to do.

WHAT COMPLICATIONS CAN OCCUR?

Gastroscopy and biopsy are generally safe when performed by surgeons
who have had special training and are experienced in these
endoscopic procedures. Complications are rare, however, they can
occur. They include bleeding from the site of a biopsy or
polypectomy and a tear (perforation) through the lining of the
intestinal wall. Blood transfusions are rarely required. A reaction
to the sedatives can occur. Irritation to the vein that medications
were given is uncommon, but may cause a tender lump lasting a few
weeks. Warm, moist towels will help relieve this discomfort.
It is important for you to recognize the early signs of possible
complications and to contact your surgeon if you notice symptoms of
difficulty swallowing, worsening throat pain, chest pains, severe
abdominal pain, fevers, chills or rectal bleeding of more than one
half cup

From : The Society of the American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic
Surgery (SAGES)