Upper GI endoscopy
Also called Gastroscopy, OGD, Upper endoscopy
Upper GI endoscopy is a test in which a thin, flexible camera is passed through the mouth to examine the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. At Elite Gastro and Liver Clinic, Dr. Anil Kumar Mannava uses it to diagnose ulcers, reflux, bleeding and early cancers, and can take a biopsy or stop bleeding during the same procedure.
At a glance
- Typical duration
- 10–20 minutes
- Sedation
- Throat spray, with light sedation if you prefer
- Fasting
- Nothing to eat for about 6 hours before
- Going home
- Same day; arrange someone to accompany you if sedated
What it involves
Endoscopy shows the lining of the upper digestive tract directly, so it finds problems that scans and blood tests can miss, such as small ulcers, inflammation, varices, coeliac changes and early tumours.
Because the same scope carries instruments, many findings can be treated straight away: tissue samples for biopsy, removal of small polyps, banding of varices or control of a bleeding vessel.
When it is recommended
- Persistent acidity, heartburn or indigestion that does not settle with medicine
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools
- Unexplained weight loss, anaemia or loss of appetite
- Upper abdominal pain that keeps coming back
- Follow-up of known ulcers, Barrett's oesophagus or varices
How to prepare
The clinic gives you written instructions when you book. In general:
- Do not eat for about 6 hours before the test. Small sips of water are usually allowed up to 2 hours before.
- Tell us if you take blood thinners, diabetes medicine or insulin, so we can advise on doses.
- Bring previous endoscopy reports, scans and a list of your medicines.
- If you choose sedation, come with someone who can take you home.
After the procedure
- Your throat may feel mildly sore for a day.
- You can usually eat once the throat numbness wears off, about an hour later.
- Dr. Mannava explains the findings the same day; biopsy results take a few days.
Questions patients ask
Is endoscopy painful?
Most people find it uncomfortable rather than painful. A numbing throat spray is used, and light sedation is available, so many patients remember little of the procedure.
How soon will I get my results?
You will hear what was seen before you leave. If a biopsy is taken, the report usually comes back within a few working days.
What is the difference between endoscopy and colonoscopy?
Upper GI endoscopy examines the food pipe, stomach and duodenum through the mouth. Colonoscopy examines the large bowel through the back passage and needs bowel preparation the day before.
Related care
- GERD and acidityHeartburn, sour burps and chest burning that keep coming back.
- Liver cirrhosisAdvanced scarring of the liver from long-term damage, which needs regular specialist care.
- Endoscopic variceal bandingSmall elastic bands placed on swollen veins in the food pipe to stop or prevent bleeding in liver disease.
- Endoscopic treatment of bleeding ulcersStopping bleeding from ulcers and vessels during endoscopy, with injection therapy and other techniques.
- Endoscopic dilatationWidening of narrowed areas in the food pipe or bowel to relieve swallowing problems and blockage.
- Foreign body removalEndoscopic removal of swallowed objects or stuck food from the digestive tract.
Ask about Upper GI endoscopy
Book a consultation to find out whether this procedure is right for you.