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Upper Endoscopy

This is a procedure in which a flexible tube with a "video camera" at the tip is passed through the oesophagus, stomach and first part of the small bowel. It permits these areas to be inspected as well as specialised procedures such as biopsies to be performed

YOU NEED TO FAST
Have nothing to eat or drink for six hours before the procedure is done.

Why is upper endoscopy done?
This test is performed to investigate symptoms such as bleeding, pain, nausea and difficulty swallowing. Other specialised techniques may be performed during the procedure. Biopsies are samples of tissue which may be performed for many reasons including looking for infection, testing that the small bowel is functioning well and diagnosing tissues which donÕt look normal, including conditions such as coeliac disease and pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions.

Preparation for the procedure
An empty stomach is essential for a safe examination, so you should have nothing to eat or drink, including water, for approximately six hours before the examination. Your doctor will tell you when to start fasting. Tell your doctor in advance about any medications you take; you might need to adjust your usual dose for the examination, this is particularly important if you are diabetic. Discuss any allergies to medications as well as medical conditions, such as heart or lung disease. Also, alert your doctor if you require antibiotics prior to undergoing dental procedures, because you might need antibiotics prior to upper endoscopy as well.

Facts About Upper Endoscopy
First Edition 2007

Contents

• What is upper endoscopy?
• Why is upper endoscopy done?
• Preparation for the procedure
• During the procedure
• After the procedure
• Possible complications of upper endosocopy

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