Understanding Upper GI Endoscopy
Upper GI endoscopy is a procedure used to examine the food pipe (oesophagus), stomach and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum) using a thin flexible camera. It can help identify causes of upper abdominal symptoms, digestive bleeding, swallowing difficulties and other abnormalities that may not be visible through routine tests.
Endoscopy can also be used for treatment, such as controlling bleeding or performing procedures on certain abnormalities found during the examination. In patients with advanced liver disease, it is particularly important for detecting and managing oesophageal or gastric varices associated with portal hypertension.
For patients seeking Upper GI Endoscopy in Mumbai, Dr. Chetan Kalal provides specialist evaluation to determine when endoscopy is required and how the findings should be managed.
Dr. Chetan Kalal: Expertise in Upper GI Endoscopy
Dr. Chetan Kalal is a DM Hepatologist with 15+ years of experience in managing complex liver and digestive disorders, including portal hypertension, gastrointestinal bleeding, hepatitis and cirrhosis. Recognised as Maharashtra’s first DM Hepatologist, he trained in Hepatology at ILBS, New Delhi, under Prof. S. K. Sarin. His experience includes evaluating upper gastrointestinal conditions and managing complications related to advanced liver disease.
15+ Years of Experience
Extensive experience managing complex liver and digestive disorders.
First DM Hepatologist in Maharashtra
Advanced specialist training in hepatology from ILBS, New Delhi.
Portal Hypertension Expertise
Experience evaluating and managing varices and related complications.
26 Peer-Reviewed Publications
Academic contributions across national and international medical journals.
Your Endoscopy Evaluation Starts With Understanding the Reason
Upper GI endoscopy is recommended based on the patient’s symptoms, medical history and suspected condition. In some cases, it is used for diagnosis, while in others it allows treatment to be performed during the same procedure. The assessment focuses on:
Upper GI Endoscopy in Mumbai: What the Procedure Can Examine
During an upper GI endoscopy, a flexible endoscope is carefully passed through the mouth to examine the upper digestive tract.
Oesophagus
The food pipe is examined for inflammation, narrowing, ulcers, varices and other abnormalities.
Stomach
The stomach lining is assessed for gastritis, ulcers, bleeding sources, growths and other changes.
Duodenum
The first part of the small intestine is examined for ulcers, inflammation and other abnormalities.
Varices
Enlarged veins associated with portal hypertension can be identified and assessed for bleeding risk.
What Can Upper GI Endoscopy Help Determine?
Endoscopy provides direct visual assessment of the upper digestive tract and can also allow tissue sampling or treatment when required.
When Should You Consider an Upper GI Endoscopy?
Endoscopy may be recommended when symptoms persist, when there is a suspected upper gastrointestinal abnormality or when direct examination is required. It may be considered for:
- Vomiting blood - Blood in vomit can indicate significant upper gastrointestinal bleeding and requires urgent evaluation.
- Black or Tarry Stools - Dark stools may indicate bleeding from the upper digestive tract.
- Difficulty Swallowing - Persistent difficulty or discomfort while swallowing may require direct examination of the oesophagus.
- Persistent Upper Abdominal Symptoms - Ongoing pain, indigestion or other symptoms may require endoscopic evaluation when other investigations are inconclusive.
- Known Portal Hypertension - Patients with portal hypertension may require endoscopy to assess for oesophageal or gastric varices.
Endoscopy findings determine whether further testing, medical treatment, surveillance or an endoscopic procedure is required.
Varices at significant risk of bleeding may be treated endoscopically, including through endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) when appropriate.
Active bleeding may be treated during endoscopy using appropriate endoscopic techniques depending on its source.
Identified ulcers may require medical treatment and, when actively bleeding, endoscopic control of the bleeding source.
Biopsies may be taken from selected areas when tissue examination is required to establish or support a diagnosis.
Certain findings may require repeat endoscopy or ongoing monitoring depending on their nature and associated risk.
Endoscopic findings are considered alongside the underlying liver or digestive disorder to determine appropriate long-term management.
When Is Endoscopic Variceal Ligation Required?
In patients with portal hypertension, some oesophageal varices carry a significant risk of bleeding. Endoscopic variceal ligation uses small bands to close selected varices and reduce the risk of future bleeding. It may be considered when:
Significant oesophageal varices are identified
Preventive endoscopic treatment is clinically indicated
Varices have previously caused gastrointestinal bleeding
The patient has portal hypertension with a high-risk variceal pattern
Frequently Asked Questions About Upper GI Endoscopy
Is upper GI endoscopy painful?
The procedure is generally well tolerated, particularly when appropriate sedation is used. Some patients may experience temporary throat discomfort, bloating or mild abdominal discomfort afterwards.
Do all patients with cirrhosis need an endoscopy?
Not necessarily. The need for endoscopy depends on the patient’s risk of portal hypertension and varices, previous findings and the overall stage of liver disease.
Can an endoscopy detect ulcers?
Yes. Upper GI endoscopy provides direct visual examination of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum and can identify many ulcers and related abnormalities.
What should I do after an endoscopy?
Patients may need to rest for a short period, particularly if sedation was used. Eating, driving and medication instructions should be followed according to the advice provided after the procedure.
How long does an upper GI endoscopy take?
The examination itself is usually relatively short, although preparation, sedation and post-procedure observation increase the total time spent at the facility.
Can treatment be performed during endoscopy?
Yes. Certain conditions, including gastrointestinal bleeding and oesophageal varices, can be treated during the same endoscopic procedure when clinically appropriate.
