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Upper G I Endoscopy

Alt Names: Gastroscopy

Upper GI endoscopy is a procedure performed by a doctor, a well-trained
subspecialist who uses the endoscope to diagnose and, in some cases, treat
problems of the upper digestive system.

The endoscope is a long, thin, flexible tube with a tiny video camera and light
on the end. By adjusting the various controls on the endoscope, the doctor can
safely guide the instrument to carefully examine the inside lining of the upper
digestive system.

Click here to find out all about endoscopy, in this interactive Web based movie.

Diagnostic Indications for Endoscopy

• Difficulty in Swallowing
   
• Persistent isolated nausea or vomiting
  In the event of isolated nausea or vomiting persisting for more than
  2 days, investigation of the upper gastrointestinal tract is justified after
  any nongastrointestinal origin and acute intestinal occlusion have been eliminated.
   
• Digestive disorders
  Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is recommended in:
  • in subjects aged over 45 years and/or if there are any warning signs or symptom's
  such as anaemia, difficulty swallowing, weight loss or any other warning signs and
  symptoms;
  • in subjects aged under 45 years with no warning signs or symptoms, upper
  gastrointestinal endoscopy is recommended in the following situations:
  – positive diagnostic test for Helicobacter pylori,
  - when symptomatic treatment has failed or recurrence occurs at the end of
  treatment.
   
• Chronic anaemia and/or iron deficiency anaemia
  Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is recommended in iron-deficiency anaemia
  and/or iron deficiency, after any non-gastrointestinal origin has been eliminated:
   
• Acute gastrointestinal bleeding originating in the upper gastrointestinal
  tract
  Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is recommended as first choice in acute
  digestive bleeding which is assumed to originate in the upper gastrointestinal
  tract (haematemesis or melaena).
   
• Gastro-oesophageal reflux (GORD)
  Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is recommended if there are symptoms
  of gastrooesophageal reflux combined with warning signs (weight loss,
  dysphagia, bleeding, anaemia), or if the patient is aged over 50 years,
  or if there is a recurrence on withdrawal of treatment or resistance to
  medical treatment.

Click here to find out all about endoscopy, in this interactive Web based movie.

© Dr. Stephen Watson- Laparoscopic & General Surgeon Perth Western Australia.