Gastroscopy vs Upper Endoscopy: Understanding the Difference

If you've been referred for an examination of your upper digestive system, you might find terms like "gastroscopy," "upper endoscopy," or "OGD" being used. These terms can be confusing, especially when trying to understand what procedure you'll be undergoing.

This guide explains the relationship between gastroscopy and upper endoscopy, what these procedures involve, and what to expect if you're scheduled for one of these examinations. Understanding these terms will help you feel more informed and prepared for your procedure.

In UK healthcare, particularly within the NHS, several terms are used to describe the examination of your upper digestive tract:

• Gastroscopy - The most commonly used term in the UK
• Upper Endoscopy - More commonly used in some other countries
• Upper GI Endoscopy - A more descriptive term (GI stands for gastrointestinal)
• OGD - Short for Oesophago-Gastro-Duodenoscopy
• EGD - The American spelling (Esophago-Gastro-Duodenoscopy)

Despite these different names, they all refer to essentially the same procedure - a test that allows doctors to look directly at the lining of the oesophagus (the gullet), the stomach and around the first bend of the small intestine (the duodenum)

The short answer is yes - in practical terms, gastroscopy and upper endoscopy refer to the same medical procedure. However, there are some subtle differences in emphasis:

• Gastroscopy literally means "looking at the stomach" (from the Greek "gastro" for stomach and "skopeo" meaning to look or examine). This term is more commonly used in the UK, particularly within the NHS.
• Upper Endoscopy is a broader term that emphasizes the examination of the entire upper digestive tract, not just the stomach. "Upper endoscopy" emphasizes a broader examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, whereas "gastroscopy" specifically focuses on the stomach Gastromedclinic.

In practice, regardless of which term is used, the procedure examines the same parts of your digestive system.

Whether called a gastroscopy or upper endoscopy, the procedure involves:

1. The Instrument: A long, thin, flexible tube with a small camera inside it is passed into your mouth then down your throat and into your stomach.
2. The Areas Examined: The oesophagus (food pipe), stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).
3. The Purpose: To visually examine the lining of these organs, identify abnormalities, take tissue samples (biopsies) if necessary, and in some cases, provide treatment.
4. Duration: The test usually lasts 5 to 15 minutes though your total time at the hospital will be longer due to preparation and recovery.

Your doctor might recommend a gastroscopy/upper endoscopy to:

Investigate persistent symptoms such as:

• Indigestion or heartburn that doesn't respond to medication
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Upper abdominal pain
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Blood in your vomit or stools (which can appear black or tar-like)

Diagnose conditions including:

• Stomach or duodenal ulcers
• Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining)
• Oesophagitis (inflammation of the oesophagus)
• Barrett's oesophagus (changes to the cells lining the oesophagus)
• Coeliac disease
• Cancers of the upper digestive tract

Monitor existing conditions or previous treatments

Before the Procedure

Fasting: You'll need to stop eating at least 6 hours before the test. You may be able to have small sips of water.

Medication Review: Inform your doctor about all medications you're taking, particularly blood thinners, as some may need to be temporarily stopped.

Comfort Options: You'll be offered options to make the procedure more comfortable:

• Local anaesthetic spray to numb your throat
• Sedation to help you relax (this doesn't put you to sleep completely)

During the Procedure

1. You'll be positioned lying on your left side.
2. If you've chosen sedation, this will be administered via a small cannula in your arm.
3. A mouth guard will be placed to protect your teeth and the endoscope.
4. The endoscopist will gently pass the endoscope through your mouth and down into your digestive tract.
5. Air may be introduced to expand the stomach for better visibility.
6. The camera sends images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to examine the lining of your digestive tract.
7. If necessary, small tissue samples (biopsies) may be taken for laboratory analysis.

After the Procedure

1. You'll be monitored in a recovery area.
2. If you've had sedation, you must arrange for a family member or friend to take you home about 1 hour after the test Guysandstthomas.
3. You should avoid driving, operating machinery, or making important decisions for 24 hours if you've had sedation.
4. If you've had throat spray, you should wait about an hour before eating or drinking.
5. You may experience some mild throat discomfort or bloating, but this typically passes quickly.

Gastroscopy/upper endoscopy offers several advantages over alternative diagnostic methods:

• Direct visualization: Provides clear images of the digestive tract lining
• Immediate results: Basic findings are available immediately after the procedure
• Tissue sampling: Allows for biopsies to be taken for laboratory analysis
• Therapeutic potential: Some conditions can be treated during the same procedure
• No radiation exposure: Unlike X-rays or CT scans

A barium test involves radiation and is less accurate than a gastroscopy. Biopsies or polyp removal cannot be performed during a barium test

In the UK, particularly within the NHS, "gastroscopy" is the term most commonly used for the procedure that examines your upper digestive tract, though "upper endoscopy" and "OGD" refer to the same examination. Regardless of terminology, this valuable diagnostic tool provides doctors with a clear view of your oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum.

The procedure is relatively quick, minimally invasive, and can provide immediate information about the cause of your symptoms. Understanding what the procedure involves can help reduce anxiety and ensure you're properly prepared when the time comes.

If you've been referred for this procedure and have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to discuss these with your healthcare provider or the endoscopy department where your test will take place.