Upper GI Endoscopy
Treatments and Procedures
What Is an Upper GI Endoscopy?
An upper GI endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the lining of the upper digestive system. It allows a specialist to investigate symptoms affecting the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) using a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope.
Sometimes referred to as an OGD (oesophagogastroduodenoscopy), an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), upper endoscopy, upper GI endoscopy, gastroscopy, or upper gastrointestinal GI endoscopy, the procedure provides detailed images of the upper GI tract, helping identify abnormalities that may not be visible through scans or other tests.
The flexible endoscope through the mouth and into the digestive tract. The endoscope contains a light and a tiny camera that transmits detailed images to a monitor, allowing the surgeon to assess the lining of the oesophagus, stomach, and the first parts of the duodenum.
Modern endoscopy is generally well tolerated and often performed with sedation for comfort.
Why Might You Need an Upper GI Endoscopy?
Your surgeon, Mr Hornby, may recommend an upper GI endoscopy if you are experiencing symptoms affecting the upper gastrointestinal system or if further investigation is needed following blood tests, scans, or other examinations. Common reasons for referral include:
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Persistent indigestion
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Difficulty swallowing
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Unexplained abdominal discomfort
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Nausea or vomiting
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Gastrointestinal bleeding or anaemia
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Suspected stomach or duodenal ulcers
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Unexplained weight loss
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Anaemia
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Suspected cancer
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Investigation of possible celiac disease
The procedure allows direct visualisation of the lining of the digestive system, helping identify inflammation, infection, narrowing, ulcers, polyps, and other abnormalities.
For more information about conditions that may be investigated using diagnostic endoscopy, see our pages on Reflux Conditions, Oesophageal Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Oesophagogastric Cancer.
To learn more about the diagnostic procedures used to examine the upper digestive tract, see our page on Therapeutic Endoscopy.
How Does an Upper GI Endoscopy Work?
During the upper GI endoscopy procedure, an endoscope is carefully passed through the mouth and down the throat into the oesophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine.
The camera at the tip of the endoscope transmits high-definition images to a monitor, allowing the specialist to carry out a detailed examination of the digestive tract.
If necessary, small instruments can be passed through the endoscope to:
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Take a biopsy
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Collect tissue samples for testing
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Assess areas of inflammation
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Investigate abnormal growths
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Identify the source of bleeding
The procedure does not usually interfere with breathing, and the healthcare team will monitor you throughout.
Preparing for the Procedure
Preparation for an upper GI endoscopy is relatively straightforward. You will usually be asked to:
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Avoid eating for several hours before the procedure
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Stop drinking fluids for a specified period beforehand
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Inform your specialist about any medications you take
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Discuss any allergies or medical conditions
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Provide details of your medical history
These steps help ensure the stomach is empty, allowing clear views of the upper GI tract during the examination.
Your healthcare team will provide personalised instructions before your appointment.
What Happens During the Procedure for Upper GI Endoscopy?
Before the examination begins, your surgeon, Mr Hornby, will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. A local anaesthetic spray will be applied to the throat, and some patients choose to receive sedation to help them relax. The procedure usually takes between 7 and 15 minutes. During the examination:
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The endoscope is gently passed through the mouth.
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It travels through the throat and oesophagus.
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The stomach and upper small intestine are examined.
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Images are displayed on a monitor in real time.
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Any areas of concern can be assessed in greater detail.
A few patients report an odd sensation and there may be some bloating and urge to belch. This is normal and there is very rarely an associated pain.
Some patients may feel the urge to retch and worry about vomiting, but whilst this can feel a little unpleasant, you will have fasted prior to the procedure for upper GI endoscopy so there should be no stomach content to vomit. If you need to stop at any time, just indicate to Mr Hornby and his team.
Biopsy and Tissue Sampling
One of the major advantages of gastrointestinal endoscopy is the ability to obtain tissue samples during the same examination.
A biopsy involves removing a tiny sample of tissue for laboratory analysis. Biopsies are usually the size of a breadcrumb and patients do not usually feel biopsies being taken. Biopsies are painless and do not usually increase recovery time. Biopsies may be used to:
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Investigate inflammation
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Detect infection
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Assess abnormal cells
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Confirm a diagnosis
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Investigate suspected cancer
Endoscopic Ultrasound
In some circumstances, an endoscopic ultrasound may be recommended alongside a standard endoscopic examination.
This combines endoscopy with ultrasound imaging, allowing structures beneath the surface of the digestive tract to be assessed in greater detail. It may be used to evaluate:
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Tumours
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Enlarged lymph nodes
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Pancreatic abnormalities
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The extent of certain cancers
If this is required, then Mr Hornby will refer you on to have this done.
Recovery After an Upper GI Endoscopy
Recovery is typically quick, particularly for patients who do not receive sedation. Following the procedure, you may experience:
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A mild sore throat
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Temporary bloating
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Minor throat irritation
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Mild tiredness if sedation was used
Most patients can return home the same day.
If sedation has been administered, you will need someone to accompany you home and should avoid driving, operating machinery, or signing important documents for the remainder of the day.
Mr Hornby will always try to talk to you after the procedure but especially in patients who have had sedation, the memory of this conversation can be hazy. Mr Hornby will provide you with a detailed written report and arrange for you to return to the clinic for a longer discussion about findings and potential treatments if required.
Are There Any Risks or Complications?
Diagnostic endoscopy is considered an exceptionally safe investigation. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential complications, although serious problems are uncommon. Possible risks include:
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Bleeding following a biopsy
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Reaction to sedation or local anaesthetic spray
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Perforation of the digestive tract (very rare - less that 1 in 10,000 cases)
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Temporary discomfort
Mr Hornby will explain any risks that may apply to your individual circumstances.
How Is Diagnostic Endoscopy Different from Therapeutic Endoscopy?
The purpose of diagnostic endoscopy is to investigate symptoms and identify the cause of a problem.
A therapeutic endoscopy, by contrast, is performed to actively treat a condition. Examples include removing abnormal tissue, stopping bleeding, removing polyps, or treating narrowing within the digestive tract.
In some cases, a diagnostic examination may lead directly to therapeutic treatment if an abnormality is identified.
Is an Upper GI Endoscopy Right for You?
An upper GI endoscopy is one of the most effective ways to investigate symptoms affecting the upper digestive system. It provides detailed visual assessment of the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum, while also allowing biopsies to be taken when necessary.
Whether you are experiencing persistent reflux symptoms, swallowing difficulties, unexplained abdominal pain, suspected ulcers, or other concerns affecting the upper digestive tract, an upper GI endoscopy can provide valuable information to support diagnosis and treatment planning.
Your surgeon, Steve Hornby, will carefully review your symptoms, medical history, and any previous test results before recommending the most appropriate investigation for your individual needs.
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Initial consultation
Book an appointment with Steve Hornby, consultant general surgeon, to discuss your symptoms, concerns, and medical history. You will have time to ask questions and receive clear information about possible next steps.
2
Personalised treatment plan
Care tailored to you. Following your consultation, a clear treatment plan is created based on your diagnosis, needs, and goals. This may include further investigations, treatment options, or preparation for surgery where appropriate.
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Treatment and recovery support
Care that continues beyond treatment. If surgery is required, it is delivered in modern clinical facilities, with recovery supported through onsite physiotherapy and follow-up care. Ongoing reviews ensure your recovery stays on track.
Ready to talk things through?
If you have questions or would like to discuss your symptoms, we’re here to help. You’re welcome to call 01242 386579, email admin@thehornbygroup.com, or use the contact form to get in touch.