Test Procedure for UGI Endoscopy: UGI endoscopy is a test which allows the doctor to look directly at the lining of the esophagus (food pipe), stomach and part of small intestine (duodenum). In order to do the test, an endoscope is passed through the mouth into the stomach. The Endoscope is a long flexible tube with a bright light at the end. Looking down the tube, the doctor gets the clear view of the lining of the stomach and can check whether or not any disease is present. Sometimes the doctor takes a biopsy sample of tissue for analysis in laboratory. This tissue is removed painlessly through the endoscope using tiny foreceps.

The Patient preparation

To allow clear view, the stomach must be empty. Patient will therefore be asked not to have anything to eat or drink atleast six hours before the test. When patient comes to the hospital, a doctor will explain the test to the patient and will usually ask the patient to sign a consent form. This is to ensure that patient understands the test

and its implications. Please inform the doctor if you have had any allergies or bad reactions to drugs or other tests. They will also want to know about any previous endoscopy you have had. If you have any worries or questions at this stage, don’t be afraid to ask. The staff will want you to be as relaxed as possible for the test and will not mind answering any queries. It will also be necessary for the patient to remove any false teeth. They will be kept safely until after the examination.

After the test

Patient’s throat may be numbed by the spray or lozenge, patient will have to wait until his swallowing reflex is back to normal. This usually takes more than an hour. After this patient can eat and drink normally. The back of the throat may feel sore for the rest of the day. Patient may also feel a little bloated if some of the air has remained in the stomach. Both these discomforts will pass and need no medication.

Going home

It is important to rest quietly for the remaining day. Sedation lasts longer than you think. So if you have been given any injection during the examination, you should not:
1.Drive a car
2. Operate machinery
3. Drink alcohol

These effects of the test and injection should have worn off by the next day when most of the people resume normal activities.

When do I know the result?

In many cases, the doctor will be able to tell you the results straight after the test or if patient has been sedated, as soon as patient is awake. However, if a biopsy has been taken during the examination, the results may take several days. Details of the results and any necessary treatment should be discussed with your doctor.