What is an upper GI endoscopy?

An upper GI endoscopy, also called esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), uses a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. It can help diagnose digestive conditions and allow certain treatments during the same procedure.

Why might I need an upper GI endoscopy?

A gastroenterologist may recommend an upper GI endoscopy for symptoms or conditions such as difficulty or pain with swallowing, persistent heartburn, ongoing upper abdominal discomfort, nausea or vomiting, suspected ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, or unexplained iron-deficiency anemia.

Is sedation used during an upper GI endoscopy?

Sedation is commonly used to help patients relax and remain comfortable during an upper GI endoscopy. The care team may also use a local anesthetic spray for the throat. The approach depends on the procedure and the patient's medical needs.

Can an upper GI endoscopy treat digestive problems?

Yes. In addition to examining the upper digestive tract, an endoscopy may allow certain treatments, such as controlling a bleeding site, dilating a narrowing, removing selected polyps, or retrieving a foreign object when appropriate.

What are the possible risks of an upper GI endoscopy?

A mild sore throat or temporary bloating may occur after the procedure. More serious complications, such as bleeding or perforation, are uncommon but possible, particularly when treatment is performed. Contact your medical team promptly if you develop severe abdominal or chest pain, fever, breathing difficulty, or persistent vomiting after the procedure.

Upper GI Endoscopy Katy, Houston | Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) Katy, Houston

Q: How should I prepare for an upper GI endoscopy?

Preparation instructions vary by patient and procedure. Patients are commonly asked to avoid food and drink for a specified period beforehand and to discuss regular medicines, including blood thinners and diabetes medications, with their medical team. Follow the specific instructions provided by your physician.

Q: How long does an upper GI endoscopy take?

The endoscopy itself commonly takes around 15 to 20 minutes, although the total appointment is longer because of preparation, sedation, and recovery observation. The duration can vary depending on the findings and any treatment performed.

Upper GI Endoscopy in Katy, TX

Upper GI endoscopy, or esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the esophagus, stomach, and upper portion of the small intestine. At Katy Integrative Gastroenterology, our gastroenterology team uses upper endoscopy to evaluate symptoms such as persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal bleeding. When appropriate, EGD can also be used to perform biopsies and certain treatments during the same procedure.

If you have ongoing upper digestive symptoms or need an evaluation of a known gastrointestinal condition, a gastroenterologist in Katy, TX can determine whether an upper GI endoscopy is appropriate for you.

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What is Upper GI Endoscopy?

Upper GI endoscopy, also known as Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a procedure to visually examine and treat problems in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It is usually performed on an outpatient basis using an endoscope, which is a long, thin, flexible tube with a tiny video camera and light on the end. The high-quality picture from the endoscope is shown on a TV monitor and by adjusting the various controls on the endoscope, your doctor can safely guide the instrument to carefully examine the inner lining of your upper gastrointestinal system and treat certain abnormal conditions. In many cases, upper GI endoscopy is a more precise examination than X-ray studies.

Indications of Upper GI Endoscopy

Difficulty or pain in swallowing
GI bleeding - hematemesis, melena, or iron-deficiency anemia
Troublesome heartburn
Persistent ulcer-like pain
Dyspepsia

With anorexia or weight loss
Taking aspirin or NSAIDs
With a history of gastric ulcer
With a normal barium meal

Persistent nausea, vomiting, or symptoms suggestive of pyloric obstruction
Gastric ulcer demonstrated by barium meal
Duodenal biopsy for suspected malabsorption

Repeat Endoscopy

You may be asked to repeat endoscopy for one or more of the following reasons

To determine the healing of a gastric ulcer
Surveillance of dysplasia in Barrett's esophagus
Progress of duodenal ulcer complicated by previous hemorrhage or perforation
Duodenal ulcer not responding to adequate ulcer therapy

Please note that repeat endoscopy is not indicated in uncomplicated duodenal ulcers.

Benefits of Upper GI Endoscopy

An upper GI endoscopy is both diagnostic and therapeutic. This means the test enables a diagnosis to be made upon which specific treatment can be given. If a bleeding site is identified, treatment can stop the bleeding, or if a polyp is found, it can be removed without a major operation. Other treatments can be given through the endoscope when necessary.

Therapeutic upper GI Endoscopy:

Sclerotherapy for varicose
Dilatation of strictures
Pneumatic dilatation of achalasia
Removal and surveillance of gastric polyps
Removal of foreign bodies

Preparation of Upper GI Endoscopy

Your medical team will also want to know if you have heart, lung, or other medical conditions that may need special attention before, during, or after upper GI endoscopy.

It is important not to eat or drink anything for at least eight hours before the endoscopy. Your doctor will instruct you about the use of regular medications, including blood thinners, before the exam.

Procedure of Upper GI Endoscopy

Prior to the procedure, you will be given intravenous medications to relax and sedate you.
The procedure is performed by an experienced endoscopy physician.
You are asked to wear a hospital gown and to remove your eyeglasses and dentures.
A local anesthetic (pain-relieving medication) may be applied at the back of your throat
You are given a pain reliever and a sedative intravenously (in your vein) You will feel relaxed and drowsy.
A mouthpiece is placed in your mouth. It does not interfere with your breathing.
You will lie on your left side during the procedure.
The physician inserts an endoscope into your mouth, through your esophagus (the “food pipe" leading from your mouth into your stomach), and into your stomach. The endoscope does not interfere with your breathing.
The procedure lasts from 15 to 20 minutes.
After the procedure, you will stay in the recovery room for about 30 minutes for observation.
Your doctor will explain the results to you and your family. If the effects of the sedatives are prolonged, your doctor may suggest an interview at a later date when the results can be fully understood.
If a biopsy has been performed or a polyp removed, the results are not available for three to seven days.
Your endoscopy report and biopsy results will be sent to your referring physician.
Have someone available to take you home, you will not be able to drive for at least 24 hours.
Do not drink or eat anything in the car on the trip home. The combination of anesthesia, food, and car motion can quite often cause nausea or vomiting.
Inform your doctor if you have severe abdominal pain, a continuous cough, fever, chills, chest pain, nausea, or vomiting within 72 hours after the procedure.

Complications of Upper GI Endoscopy

Apart from a minor sore throat, significant complications are extremely rare for diagnostic endoscopy in patients with adequate cardio-respiratory status.

Therapeutic endoscopy carries an increased risk. Possible complications of therapeutic endoscopy include bleeding and puncture of the stomach lining. However, such complications are rare.

Why Choose Katy Integrative Gastroenterology for Upper GI Endoscopy in Katy, TX?

Choosing a gastroenterology practice for an endoscopic procedure involves more than finding a convenient location. At Katy Integrative Gastroenterology, our team combines gastroenterology expertise with a personalized approach to digestive health.

We take the time to understand your symptoms, medical history, and individual concerns before recommending diagnostic testing or treatment. When an upper GI endoscopy is appropriate, our team provides guidance before and after the procedure so you understand what to expect.

Our practice also takes an integrative approach to digestive health, incorporating gastroenterology, nutrition, and functional medicine when appropriate. This allows us to consider your overall health while evaluating and treating gastrointestinal concerns.

Patients in Katy, Houston, and surrounding communities can access comprehensive digestive care from a team focused on their individual needs.

Upper GI Endoscopy FAQs

How long does an upper GI endoscopy take?

The actual upper GI endoscopy typically takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes, although you will spend additional time preparing for the procedure and recovering from sedation.

Is an upper GI endoscopy painful?

Upper GI endoscopy is generally performed with sedation to help you remain comfortable and relaxed during the procedure. You may experience a mild sore throat afterward.

What can an upper endoscopy diagnose?

An EGD can help evaluate conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, including inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, narrowing, and other abnormalities. Your gastroenterologist may also obtain tissue samples for laboratory analysis.

Can a biopsy be performed during an upper GI endoscopy?

Yes. If an abnormal area is identified, your gastroenterologist may take a small tissue sample, known as a biopsy, for further evaluation.

How should I prepare for an upper GI endoscopy?

You will generally need to avoid eating and drinking before the procedure. Your gastroenterologist will provide specific instructions regarding fasting and medications, including whether certain medications such as blood thinners need to be adjusted.

When should I consider an upper GI endoscopy?

Your gastroenterologist may recommend an upper endoscopy when you have persistent or concerning symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding, ongoing heartburn, persistent nausea or vomiting, or unexplained upper abdominal discomfort.

Schedule an Upper GI Endoscopy in Katy, TX

If you have persistent digestive symptoms or have been advised to undergo an upper GI endoscopy, Katy Integrative Gastroenterology can help you understand your diagnostic and treatment options.

Our gastroenterology team provides personalized digestive care for patients in Katy, Houston, and surrounding communities. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and learn whether an upper GI endoscopy in Katy, TX is right for you.

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