What is an Upper Endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy allows the doctor to look inside the esophagus, stomach and the duodenum.
What to Expect
You will receive medications for sedation and the Doctor and nurse will monitor you closely. A thin flexible lighted tube will be inserted into your mouth. The doctor can see images of your esophagus and stomach on a video screen for careful examination. The doctor can see abnormalities such as inflammation and bleeding and is able to take biopsy.
Preparation
The stomach needs to be empty for the procedure, so you will not be able to eat or drink after midnight the day of your procedure.
This procedure is used to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and upper duodenum for inflammation, ulcers, or growths. It can rule out disorders such as acid reflux or hiatal hernia. The physician uses a small camera, called an endoscope, which is inserted into the mouth and guided down the throat. The examination usually lasts from 5 to 20 minutes.