Preparation: Before the procedure, you will need to fast for several hours to empty your stomach. Your doctor may also ask you to stop taking certain medications that may interfere with the procedure.
Anesthesia: You will be given a local anesthetic spray to numb your throat and a sedative to help you relax during the procedure.
Insertion of the endoscope: The endoscope, a flexible tube with a light and camera attached, will be inserted through your mouth and down your throat into your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. You will be asked to swallow the tube, and your doctor will guide it through your digestive system.
Examination: As the endoscope moves through your digestive system, your doctor will examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The camera attached to the endoscope will capture images of your digestive system, which your doctor will review.
Biopsy: During the procedure, your doctor may take a small tissue sample (biopsy) from the lining of your digestive system for further examination under a microscope. This is a painless procedure and will not affect your ability to eat or drink.
Removal of the endoscope: Once the examination is complete, the endoscope will be slowly removed from your digestive system. The procedure usually takes around 15-30 minutes to complete.