Upper GI Endoscopy and Dilatation
This webpage will give you information about an upper GI
endoscopy and dilatation. If you have any questions, you should ask
your GP or other relevant health professional.
What is an upper GI endoscopy?
An upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy is a procedure to look
at the inside of the oesophagus (gullet), stomach and duodenum
using a flexible telescope (see figure 1). This procedure is
sometimes known as a gastroscopy.
A dilatation involves stretching the narrowed area.
Figure 1 - Areas examined by an upper GI endoscopy
Are there any alternatives to an upper GI endoscopy?
An upper GI endoscopy without dilatation or a barium meal are
other investigations.
What does the procedure involve?
If appropriate, the endoscopist may offer you a sedative to help
you relax.
An upper GI endoscopy usually takes about a quarter of an hour.
The procedure involves placing a flexible telescope (endoscope)
into the back of your throat. From here the endoscope will pass on
into your duodenum.
The endoscopist will be able to look for problems in these
organs. They will be able to perform biopsies and take photographs
to help make the diagnosis. The endoscopist can perform a
dilatation using a guidewire and dilators or a balloon dilator.
What complications can happen?
- Allergic reaction
- Breathing difficulties or heart irregularities
- Making a hole in the oesophagus or stomach
- Damage to teeth or bridgework
- Bleeding
- Incomplete procedure
How soon will I recover?
If you were given sedation, you will normally recover in about
an hour.
A member of the team will tell you what was found during the
endoscopy and will discuss with you any treatment or follow-up you
need.
You should be able to go back to work one to two days after the
endoscopy.
Summary
An upper GI endoscopy and dilatation is usually a safe and
effective way of finding out if you have a problem with the upper
part of your digestive system and treating your symptoms.
Acknowledgements
Author: Mr Simon Parsons DM FRCS (Gen. Surg.)
Illustrations: LifeART image copyright 2006 Lippincott Williams
& Wilkins. All rights reserved.
This document is intended for information purposes only and
should not replace advice that your relevant health professional
would give you.
Copyright © 2008 EIDO
Healthcare Limited
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You may not copy, print out, download or
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The information should not replace advice that
your relevant health professional would give you.
Hospitals offering this treatment