U.G.I. Endoscopy

Upper G.I. Endoscopy (also called gastroscopy) is a procedure or test that allows the physician to directly visualize and examine the upper digestive tract including the esophagus, stomach and the first portion of the small bowel called the duodenum. It is done on patients with esophagus and stomach symptoms that are persistent or keep recurring. It is also used to diagnose an abnormality found on x-ray. It can also be done to treat areas in the esophagus and stomach that are narrow and need to be stretched.

The endoscope is a flexible black tube, a little bigger around than a pencil. Light is transmitted through the scope and a picture appears on a screen much like a television. In most cases, the physician will take pictures of any abnormality that will become a permanent part of your hospital chart and your chart in the physician’s office. He/she will also have these picture available to show you and your family after the procedure. In some case, the physician will video-tape your procedure.

You will be admitted the Ambulatory Care area of the hospital approximately 1-1/2 to 2 hours before your procedure. It is in this area that your procedure will be done. On admission, you will have a nursing physical assessment and sign a Consent for Treatment form. An I.V. line will be started. Through this you will receive medication to keep you relaxed and comfortable during the procedure. You may feel a bit sleepy. This is normal.

For the procedure you will lie on your left side. The procedure will take 15 to 30 minutes depending on what the physician finds and how many biopsies are taken.

A few minutes before your procedure your throat will be sprayed with medication to make it numb and help prevent gagging. The scope is then passed slowly through the mouth into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The physician will then slowly withdraw the scope. It is at this time that the most through examination is done. Biopsies are also taken during this time. Be assured that you will feel very little discomfort.

After the procedure, the physician will give you a general idea of what is found. However, if biopsy samples are taken, they are sent to the laboratory for analysis. These results are sent to your physician. After careful review, your physician or nurse will call you or notify you by mail of your results. This may take a week to ten days.

Upper G.I. endoscopy is a very safe procedure. Complications can occur but are rare. One possible complications is a tear in the wall of the upper G.I. tract. Another is bleeding from the biopsy site. Less severe side effect may include redness and/or soreness in the vein where the medication was given. A tender lump may develop at the intravenous site and may remain for several weeks. This will eventually disappear. Other risks include drug reactions or complications from other diseases such as heart problems. This is only a remote possibility.

After your procedure, it is important that you have someone with you to speak with your physician. Someone needs to be available to drive you home. After the effects of the medicine have worn off and you are able to take fluids and food, you will be discharged. If you have any questions in the meantime, please call the office at 563-557-9111.

TWO IMPORTANT REMINDERS:

1. HAVE SOMEONE AVAILABLE TO DRIVE YOU HOME.

2. CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE CARRIER REGARDING COVERAGE FOR THE PROCEDURE. YOU MAY NEED AN INSURANCE PRECERTIFICATION NUMBER.

These are your instructions:
1. Nothing to eat or drink after midnight the night before your procedure.

2. If you endoscopy is scheduled for the afternoon, you may have a light breakfast (toast, juice, coffee) before . You may also have clear liquids (tea, broth, clear soda, plain gelatin , popsicles) up to six hours before your procedure.

3. When you are notified of the final results of your tests, check with the nurse about a follow-up appointment.

1. If you are on medication, check with the physician about taking medication prior to you procedure. Take you medications to the hospital with you.

2. If you are on insulin or medication for diabetes, these may need to be adjusted prior to the procedure.

3. If you take aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or blood thinners, be sure the physician is aware of this. The medication may have to be discontinued for up to one week prior to the scheduled procedure.