Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (EGD)

What is Upper GI Endoscopy?

Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, also known as:

• Gastroscopy
• OGD (Oesophago-Gastro-Duodenoscopy)

is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the:

• Esophagus (food pipe)
• Stomach
• First part of the small intestine (duodenum)

During the procedure, a thin flexible tube with a camera and light source is passed through the mouth to visualize the upper digestive tract in real time.

The procedure helps diagnose many gastrointestinal conditions and also allows certain treatments to be performed immediately during the same session.

Why is Upper GI Endoscopy Performed?

Upper GI endoscopy is recommended for patients having persistent or concerning digestive symptoms.

Common Indications for Upper GI Endoscopy

1. Persistent Acidity and Reflux:

Patients with chronic:

• Heartburn
• Acid reflux
• Regurgitation
• Chest burning

may require endoscopy to evaluate for:

• Esophagitis
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Barrett’s esophagus

2. Difficulty Swallowing:

Patients experiencing food sticking or difficulty swallowing may have:

• Esophageal narrowing
• Strictures
• Tumors
• Motility disorders

Endoscopy helps identify the cause and often allows treatment during the same procedure.

3. Upper Abdominal Pain:

Persistent upper abdominal discomfort may occur due to:

• Gastritis
• Peptic ulcer disease
• H. pylori infection
• Duodenal ulcers

Endoscopy provides direct visualization of these conditions.

4. Gastrointestinal Bleeding:

Upper GI endoscopy is commonly performed in patients with:

• Vomiting blood
• Black stools (melena)
• Unexplained anemia

It can identify the bleeding source and provide immediate treatment.

5. Persistent Vomiting or Nausea:

Endoscopy helps evaluate for:

• Gastric outlet obstruction
• Ulcers
• Inflammation
• Tumors

6. Weight Loss or Loss of Appetite:

Unexplained weight loss may sometimes indicate serious underlying disease requiring endoscopic evaluation.

7. Foreign Body Removal:

Objects accidentally swallowed can often be removed safely using endoscopy without surgery.

8. Screening for Varices in Liver Disease:

Patients with chronic liver disease or cirrhosis may develop enlarged veins (varices) in the esophagus or stomach. Endoscopy helps detect and treat these before life-threatening bleeding occurs.

What Treatments Can Be Performed During Endoscopy?

Upper GI endoscopy is not limited to diagnosis only. Several therapeutic procedures can also be performed, including:

• Biopsy sampling
• Removal of foreign bodies
• Control of bleeding
• Variceal band ligation
• Dilatation of strictures
• Polyp removal
• Feeding tube placement

Many conditions can now be treated endoscopically without surgery.

Is Upper GI Endoscopy Painful?

Upper GI endoscopy is usually performed under local throat anesthesia and/or sedation. Most patients tolerate the procedure very comfortably.

The procedure generally takes 5–15 minutes, depending upon the indication.

After the procedure, patients are usually observed briefly and can return home the same day.

Are There Any Risks?

Upper GI endoscopy is considered a very safe procedure when performed by trained specialists.

Complications are uncommon but may include:

• Mild throat discomfort
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Perforation (rare)
• Sedation-related complications

Careful monitoring and modern endoscopic techniques help minimize these risks.

Our Experience at Advanced Endoscopy Center:

EGD and therapeutic endoscopy services are available at Advanced Endoscopy Center by Dr. Inam Ul Haq, located at Saad Medical Complex, Faisalabad, where these procedures have been regularly performed over the past three years with a focus on safe, modern, and minimally invasive patient care.

When Should You Consult a Gastroenterologist?

You should seek medical evaluation if you experience:

• Persistent acidity or reflux
• Difficulty swallowing
• Recurrent vomiting
• Black stools
• Vomiting blood
• Persistent upper abdominal pain
• Unexplained anemia
• Weight loss or poor appetite

Early diagnosis often prevents complications and allows timely treatment.