The upper endoscopy uses an instrument called an endoscope which is a thin flexible lighted tube with a camera on the end. This is passed down the throat allowing an examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). The doctor will be able to see the walls and tissue of the upper digestive tract, and be able to detect disorders such as strictures (narrowed areas), hiatal hernias, ulcers, tumors and any damage such as, oesophagitis caused by the stomach acid. Biopsies may be taken to check for any other abnormalities, or conditions that are not visible to the eye and to confirm a diagnosis of GORD.
The procedure is usually performed in children under a general anesthetic.