What is Upper GI Endoscopy & Colonoscopy?
An Upper GI Endoscopy (also called EGD — Esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is a minimally invasive procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a high-definition camera (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth to examine the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine). It allows the doctor to directly visualise the lining of the upper digestive tract in real time.
A Colonoscopy uses a similar instrument inserted through the rectum to examine the entire large intestine (colon) and sometimes the terminal ileum. It is the gold standard for colon cancer screening and the diagnosis of lower GI disorders.
When is it Recommended?
Dr. Hardik Ahuja recommends Upper GI Endoscopy or Colonoscopy when patients present with the following conditions or symptoms:
Chronic Acidity & Heartburn
Persistent GERD, acid reflux, or burning sensation that doesn't respond to medications.
GI Bleeding
Vomiting blood, blood in stools, or black tarry stools indicating upper or lower GI bleeding.
Cancer Screening
Screening and early detection of oesophageal, gastric, and colorectal cancers. Polyp removal during the same sitting.
Difficulty Swallowing
Dysphagia or painful swallowing — detecting strictures, tumours, or motility disorders of the food pipe.
Stomach Ulcers
Peptic ulcer disease — H. pylori testing, biopsy, and endoscopic treatment of bleeding ulcers.
IBS / IBD Evaluation
Colonoscopy is essential for diagnosing Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and other bowel disorders.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Involuntary weight loss with nausea or anorexia — ruling out malignancy or malabsorption syndromes.
Coeliac Disease / Biopsy
Tissue biopsy from duodenum for coeliac disease, or from colon for microscopic colitis diagnosis.
Upper GI Endoscopy vs Colonoscopy
| Parameter | Upper GI Endoscopy (EGD) | Colonoscopy |
|---|---|---|
| Area Examined | Oesophagus, Stomach, Duodenum | Entire Large Intestine (Colon & Rectum) |
| Entry Point | Through the mouth | Through the rectum |
| Duration | 10–20 minutes | 20–45 minutes |
| Preparation | Fasting 6–8 hours before | Bowel preparation (laxative night before) |
| Sedation | Optional | Usually given |
| Key Uses | Ulcers, GERD, Gastric cancer, Bleeding | Colorectal cancer, IBD, Polyps, Bleeding |
| Biopsy Possible? | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Polyp Removal? | ✓ Yes (EMR) | ✓ Yes (Polypectomy) |
What Happens During the Procedure?
Here is a step-by-step overview of what you can expect on the day of your Upper GI Endoscopy or Colonoscopy at Dr. Ahuja's clinic:
Pre-procedure Check-in & Consent
You arrive at the clinic, vitals are recorded, and informed consent is obtained. Your reports and medications are reviewed. An IV line is placed if sedation is planned.
Sedation / Anaesthesia (if applicable)
Mild to moderate sedation (conscious sedation) is administered through the IV to keep you relaxed and comfortable. Throat spray is applied for Upper GI Endoscopy to reduce the gag reflex.
Endoscope Insertion & Examination
The flexible endoscope is gently guided down the oesophagus (or through the rectum for colonoscopy). The high-definition camera transmits live images to a monitor for thorough examination.
Diagnostic & Therapeutic Actions
If needed, biopsies are taken, polyps removed, bleeding controlled, or stents placed — all during the same procedure. No additional surgery required.
Recovery & Post-procedure Discussion
After the procedure (typically 15–45 minutes total), you rest in the recovery area for 30–60 minutes until the sedation wears off. Dr. Ahuja discusses the findings and next steps with you and your family before discharge.
How to Prepare
For Upper GI Endoscopy
- Fast for at least 6–8 hours before the procedure
- You may drink small sips of water up to 2 hours prior
- Inform doctor about all current medications
- Blood thinners may need to be stopped beforehand
- Bring all previous medical reports and prescriptions
- Arrange for a family member to accompany you
For Colonoscopy
- Bowel preparation: take prescribed laxative the night before
- Clear liquid diet 24 hours before the procedure
- Avoid red-coloured drinks or foods before preparation
- Blood thinners (aspirin, warfarin) may need adjustment
- Iron supplements to be stopped 5–7 days prior
- Arrange transport — do not drive after sedation
Safety & Risks
Upper GI Endoscopy and Colonoscopy are extremely safe procedures when performed by experienced endoscopists. The risk of serious complications is less than 0.1%. Dr. Hardik Ahuja has performed over 5,000 endoscopic procedures with an excellent safety record.
Mild Bloating / Discomfort
Common after the procedure due to air used during endoscopy. Resolves within a few hours.
Minor Bleeding (Rare)
Can occur after biopsy or polyp removal. Usually self-limiting. Rarely requires intervention.
Sedation Reaction (Very Rare)
Mild allergic or breathing reactions. Monitored continuously throughout the procedure.
Perforation (Extremely Rare)
A small tear in the GI tract wall. Risk <0.03%. Requires immediate attention if it occurs.