Ex.) This month's outpatient services schedule

Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) Endoscopy Appointment Information

Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) Endoscopy Appointment Information

Purpose of Examination

The purpose of this exam is to observe the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, detect and diagnose abnormalities and diseases, and determine an appropriate treatment plan. A tube-shaped camera under 1 cm in diameter is inserted through the mouth to diagnose cancer, ulcers, inflammation (sores), polyps, and other conditions.

Examination Method

  • Anesthesia is administered to the pharynx with a jelly or spray just before the examination.
  • An endoscope is inserted through the mouth to observe and photograph the entire esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
  • If necessary, a dye is applied to clarify the irregularities of the mucosal surface. In addition, for early detection of esophageal cancer, the esophagus may be iodized for observation.
  • A portion of the tissue may be collected (biopsied) to diagnose benign or malignant conditions.
  • The exam is approximately 10 minutes but varies from person to person.

Complications

According to national statistics, the most common incidental complication from testing is shock due to drug allergy.
Patients with allergies to drugs should inform us in advance. Other common complications are bleeding and perforation, with a reported frequency of 0.007%.

Sedative and Analgesic Injections

When performing upper GI endoscopy at our center, we may administer sedative or analgesic (painkiller) injections to alleviate exam-related anxiety or nervousness. The disadvantages of sedatives/analgesics are that they may cause drowsiness and impaired judgment on the examination day. Elderly patients should be accompanied by a family member. In addition, those who receive sedative/analgesic injections during the examination should not drive a car, motorcycle, or bicycle for the entire day after the exam, as the resulting impairment of judgment may lead to an accident.
The physician may reduce or cancel the use of sedatives/analgesics at their discretion.
*Please inform us if you cannot accept sedatives or painkillers for any reason.
We will take all necessary precautions in conducting the examination, and in the unlikely event of an emergency, we will take all possible measures to provide emergency treatment.

Examination Preparation

Before the Exam
  • Please eat an easily digestible dinner by 9:00 p.m. (*You may drink water).
  • Do not drink alcohol after 9:00 p.m.
Examination Day
  • Do not eat breakfast (*You may drink water).
    (You may drink water up to 1 hour before the scheduled appointment.)
  • Take heart disease, high blood pressure, and other essential medications before 7:00 a.m.
  • Do not take diabetes medications.
  • Do not smoke.

Exam Day Precautions

  • Dress comfortably and refrain from wearing constricting clothing such as girdles or body suits.
  • Please bring an escort if age is a concerning factor.
  • For your safety, do not ride a bicycle, motorcycle, or drive.
    Note that if you are administered sedative, you will not be allowed to drive a vehicle for the entire day following the exam.

For Outpatients