UGI Endoscopy, also called Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy or OGD Scopy, is a procedure used to examine the lining of the upper digestive tract, including the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. It helps doctors identify the cause of symptoms and, when required, perform certain treatments during the same procedure.
When it is recommended
UGI endoscopy may be recommended for symptoms such as persistent acidity or reflux, difficulty swallowing, recurrent vomiting, unexplained upper abdominal pain, indigestion, vomiting blood, black stools, unexplained anaemia or suspected ulcers. It may also be used to evaluate abnormalities detected through other investigations and to monitor certain gastrointestinal conditions.
About the procedure
During the procedure, a thin, flexible endoscope with a camera is gently passed through the mouth into the upper digestive tract. The camera provides a detailed view of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. Depending on the findings, the doctor may take small tissue samples for laboratory examination. Certain treatments, such as controlling bleeding, removing selected lesions or retrieving swallowed foreign bodies, may also be performed through the endoscope when clinically appropriate.
UGI endoscopy is generally performed under appropriate sedation or anaesthesia based on the procedure and patient's condition. Patients are usually advised to fast before the examination. After the procedure, the healthcare team monitors the patient until the effects of sedation have sufficiently reduced. The findings are discussed with the patient, along with any further investigations or treatment required.
