What is Upper GI Endoscopy?

An Upper GI Endoscopy (also called esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD) is a safe and painless procedure that helps doctors look inside your upper digestive system – the esophagus (food pipe), stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). It is done using a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope, which has a tiny camera and light at its tip. This allows the doctor to see the inside of your digestive tract on a monitor in real-time.

This test is very helpful in finding the cause of problems like stomach pain, indigestion, acid reflux, ulcers, or bleeding. It is also used to perform treatments such as removing small growths, dilating narrow areas, or taking tissue samples (biopsies).

Why is Upper GI Endoscopy Done?

Your doctor may recommend an Upper GI Endoscopy if you are having symptoms such as:

• Persistent stomach pain or discomfort
• Nausea and vomiting
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Black or tarry stools (which may indicate bleeding)
• Severe heartburn or acid reflux
• Loss of appetite
• Anemia or low blood count

It’s also useful for monitoring conditions like ulcers, inflammation, or even early signs of cancer.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Before the procedure, you will be asked not to eat or drink for about 6 to 8 hours. The doctor may give you a mild sedative or anesthesia to help you relax and feel comfortable.

During the endoscopy:

1. You lie on your side on the examination table.
2. The doctor sprays a local anesthetic in your throat to numb it.
3. The flexible endoscope is gently inserted through your mouth and guided into your stomach and duodenum.
4. The camera sends images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to carefully examine your upper GI tract.
5. If needed, small tools can be passed through the scope to take tissue samples or treat conditions.

The entire procedure usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes. Afterward, you will be observed for a short time until the sedative wears off.

Is Upper GI Endoscopy Safe?

Yes, it is a very safe and commonly performed procedure. Serious complications are rare. Some people may experience a sore throat, mild bloating, or temporary cramping after the test, but these usually go away within a day. The doctor will explain all possible risks before the procedure to ensure your comfort and safety.

How to Prepare for an Upper GI Endoscopy

• Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before the procedure.
• Inform the doctor if you are on blood-thinning medicines or have allergies.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home, as the sedative may make you drowsy.
• Wear loose and comfortable clothing.

What Happens After the Test?

After the procedure, you may feel drowsy or a bit bloated. You should rest for the remainder of the day and avoid making important decisions until you are fully alert. Your doctor will review the findings and may prescribe medicines or lifestyle changes based on the results. If a biopsy was taken, results are usually available in a few days.

Treatment During Endoscopy

Upper GI Endoscopy is not only a diagnostic tool but also a treatment procedure. Some of the treatments that can be done during the test include:

• Removing polyps or small growths
• Dilating narrowed areas of the esophagus or stomach
• Stopping bleeding using clips or cauterization
• Taking tissue samples (biopsy) to test for infection or cancer
• Managing ulcers and inflammation

This means you may not need additional procedures later, saving time and discomfort.

Why Choose Dr. Tushar Madke for Your Upper GI Endoscopy?

At Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, your Upper GI Endoscopy is performed by Dr. Tushar Madhav Madke, a highly trained and experienced hepatologist and endoscopist.

Dr. Madke completed his MBBS and MD in Internal Medicine from TNMC & BYL Nair Hospital, Mumbai, followed by DM in Hepatology from the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS), New Delhi, under the guidance of Padma Bhushan Prof. Shiv Kumar Sarin. He also underwent advanced training in liver and transplant care at Dr. Rela Institute, Chennai.

With over 2000 successful endoscopic procedures, Dr. Madke combines precision, safety, and empathy while treating patients. His focus is on explaining every step in simple terms, helping patients feel at ease before, during, and after the procedure.

He is also a member of leading liver and gastroenterology societies such as the Indian National Association for the Study of the Liver (INASL), Liver Transplantation Society of India (LTSI), European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL), and American Association for the Study of the Liver (AASLD).

FAQs – What Patients Often Ask

1. Does it hurt?
   You will not feel pain as you are given sedation and throat numbing medication. Some discomfort may be felt during insertion but it is brief.
2. Can I eat after the procedure?
   Yes, you can start with light meals once you feel fully awake, usually a few hours after the test.
3. How long does it take to recover?
   Most people go home the same day and recover fully within 24 hours.
4. Will the results be shared immediately?
   Your doctor will explain what was seen during the test and guide you about the next steps. If a biopsy was done, reports are available in a few days.
5. Is it necessary to take this test?
   If you are having digestive symptoms or unexplained discomfort, this test helps diagnose the cause early and prevent serious complications.

Book Your Consultation Today

If you are experiencing stomach discomfort, acid reflux, or digestive issues, don’t wait. Consult Dr. Tushar Madke at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune for expert, safe, and comfortable Upper GI Endoscopy services.

Take the first step toward better digestive health with care you can trust!

📞 Schedule an appointment and speak with our experts today.