Upper Endoscopic Gastrointestinal Ultrasonography
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
What do I need to know about an upper endoscopic gastrointestinal ultrasonography?
An upper gastrointestinal endoscopic ultrasound is done to look at the different parts of your upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The upper GI tract includes the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine). This procedure is used to help identify and treat diseases that affect the upper GI tract.
How do I prepare for this procedure?
Your healthcare provider will talk to you about how to prepare for the procedure. He or she may tell you not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of your procedure. He or she will tell you what medicines you may or may not take on the day of your procedure. Arrange to have someone drive you home.
What will happen during this procedure?
- You may be given medicine to help you relax. You will be asked to lie on your left side. Your provider will gently pass the echoendoscope through your mouth. This will go down into your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. You may be asked to swallow to help the scope move along. The passage of the echoendoscope may cause a feeling of pressure and some discomfort. Your provider will slowly advance the scope while he or she watches its movement on a small video screen. He or she will also take pictures.
- Your provider may take tissue samples and send them to the lab for tests. He or she may also treat any known conditions you have. When the procedure is finished, the echoendoscope will be removed.
What will happen after this procedure?
You may feel bloated, gassy, or have some abdominal discomfort. Your throat may be sore for 24 to 36 hours after the procedure. You may burp or pass gas from air that is still inside your body after your procedure. You may need to take short walks to help move the gas out. Eat small meals, if you feel bloated. Do not drive or make important decisions until the day after your procedure.
What are the risks of this procedure?
Your esophagus, stomach, or duodenum may be punctured or torn during the procedure. This is because of increased pressure as the scope and air are passing through. You may bleed more than expected or get an infection. You may have a slow or irregular heartbeat, or low blood pressure. This can cause sweating and fainting. Fluid may enter your lungs and you may have trouble breathing. These problems can be life-threatening.
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