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Endoscopy
What is upper endoscopy? Upper
endoscopy is a routine, outpatient procedure in which the inside of
the upper digestive system is examined.
Endoscopy is most
commonly used to help identify the causes of abdominal or chest
pain, nausea and/or vomiting, heartburn or swallowing disorders.
An Endoscopy can also help identify inflammation, tumors and ulcers.
What happens during the procedure?
During the procedure, your physician will use an endoscope (a long,
thin, flexible instrument about 1/2 inch in diameter) to examine the
inside of the upper digestive system.
Abnormalities can be
treated through the endoscope and can be identified and removed for
analysis if required. Procedures such as stretching narrowed areas,
removing objects or treating upper digestive track bleeding can also
be performed.
You will
receive a preparation kit which contains full instructions.
Eating and drinking before the procedure: An endoscopy
requires that you have an empty stomach before the procedure. Please
do not eat any solid food for 8 hours before the procedure. You may
drink clear liquids up until 2 hours before the procedure. Clear
liquids include items such as clear broth, black coffee, black tea,
apple juice, ginger ale, 7UP, etc.
Transportation & help after the procedure:
You will need to bring a responsible person with you to
accompany you home after the procedure. You should not drive or
operate machinery for at least 8 hours after the procedure. The
sedation given during the procedure may cause drowsiness, dizziness
and/or impair your judgment, making it unsafe for you to drive or
operate machinery.
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