Advancements in medical technology have made it possible to see inside the digestive tract and see what is causing patients’ symptoms, and subsequently suggest appropriate treatment. One of the highly advanced procedures used by gastroenterologists (GI doctors) is the upper endoscopy.
An upper endoscopy is a procedure that allows a GI doctor to look inside the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. It is used to diagnose and treat conditions of the digestive system. It involves the use of a long, thin tube, which passes through the throat, down the esophagus, and the rest of the upper gastrointestinal tract. An upper endoscopy is performed while a patient is sedated or under anesthesia, therefore the patient should feel no pain during the procedure.
If your GI doctor has recommended an upper endoscopy, it could be due to any of the reasons below.
To Diagnose Gastrointestinal Disorders That Cause Stomach Pain
An upper endoscopy can help diagnose many gastrointestinal disorders such as ulcers, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), gastritis, Barrett’s esophagus, and other upper GI disorders that can cause throat, chest, and abdominal discomfort and pain. Any of these conditions can cause inflammation, ulceration, and bleeding in the upper GI tract.
To Treat Bleeding
An upper endoscopy can also be used to treat bleeding in the upper GI tract. The gastroenterologist will be able to determine the source of bleeding and use various tools inserted through the scope itself, such as cauterization tools, to stop bleeding.
To Remove Foreign Objects
Food can sometimes become stuck in the digestive tract, and an upper endoscopy may be performed to get the food unstuck. GI doctors can also use it to remove foreign objects stuck in the GI tract before they cause complications.
To Evaluate the Narrowing Of The Esophagus Or Stomach
Gastroenterologists may also use endoscopy to determine the cause of a narrowing of the esophagus and dilate it. A balloon is passed through the endoscope and inflated to open up the narrowed section of the digestive tract.
To Take A Biopsy For Further Testing
During an upper endoscopy, the gastroenterologist may take a tissue sample using a tool passed through the endoscope tube for further testing. This is usually done to determine the nature of the abnormal growth – if it’s benign or malignant. The samples will be sent off to a laboratory for further testing to help give a better understanding of the underlying condition the patient has.
Upper Endoscopy in Austin, TX
Austin Gastroenterology is a leading provider of upper endoscopy in North Austin, South Austin, and Bee Cave. We have over 35 highly skilled and board-certified gastroenterologists and advanced practitioners who are trained in this very delicate and advanced procedure. From diagnostics to treatment and recovery, your Austin Gastroenterology provider is with you every step of the way. The entire team believes in providing supportive, comprehensive, patient-centric care.
To schedule your upper endoscopy, or to schedule an appointment with one of our GI doctors, call our clinic nearest you or use our convenient online request form.
