Procedure for Upper GI Scopy

1. Preparation:

   • Fasting: Before the procedure, patients are usually instructed to fast for at least 6-8 hours. This ensures the stomach is empty, which makes the procedure easier and safer.
   • Medication: Patients may need to adjust medications before the procedure, especially if they take blood thinners, diabetes medications, or drugs that affect stomach acid. The doctor will provide specific instructions.

2. Sedation:

   • The procedure is generally performed with sedation or light anesthesia to ensure the patient is comfortable and relaxed. In most cases, patients are given conscious sedation (such as a sedative and pain relief), and they may be awake but drowsy, with no memory of the procedure.
   • In some cases, general anesthesia might be used, especially if the patient requires more extensive treatment or if the procedure is expected to take longer.

3. Insertion of the Endoscope:

   • The procedure begins by inserting the endoscope through the mouth. The endoscope is a long, flexible tube with a small camera and light at the end. The doctor carefully guides the scope through the throat, esophagus, stomach, and into the duodenum to examine the lining of these organs.
   • A small amount of air is often introduced into the stomach to expand it and provide better visibility.

4. Examination and Diagnosis:

   • The doctor examines the images from the camera in real-time on a monitor, looking for abnormalities such as ulcers, bleeding, inflammation, or tumors.
   • If needed, biopsy samples are taken using small instruments that can pass through the endoscope.