Upper and lower GI endoscopies are procedures that allow doctors to visualize the inside of the digestive tract using an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light. An upper GI endoscopy examines the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). A lower GI endoscopy, also known as a colonoscopy, examines the colon and rectum. These procedures are used to diagnose and treat various gastrointestinal conditions.

Upper GI Endoscopy (also known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD)

• Purpose : Examines the upper part of the digestive tract for abnormalities like ulcers, inflammation, or tumors.
• Procedure : The endoscope is inserted through the mouth and advanced through the esophagus, stomach, and into the duodenum.
• What it can diagnose : GERD, peptic ulcers, gastritis, esophageal varices, Barrett's esophagus, and stomach cancer.

• What it can treat : Biopsies can be taken, polyps removed, and bleeding can be stopped.

Lower GI Endoscopy (also known as colonoscopy)

• Purpose : Examines the lower part of the digestive tract, primarily the colon and rectum, for conditions like polyps, inflammation, or cancer.
• Procedure : The endoscope is inserted through the rectum and advanced through the colon.
• What it can diagnose : Colorectal polyps, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), hemorrhoids, and colorectal cancer.
• What it can treat Polyps can be removed, biopsies taken, and bleeding can be addressed.

Key Differences

• Key Differences : Upper GI endoscopy involves insertion through the mouth, while a colonoscopy involves insertion through the rectum.
• Target Areas : Upper GI endoscopy focuses on the upper digestive tract, while colonoscopy focuses on the lower digestive tract.
• Preparation : Colonoscopy typically requires bowel preparation to clear the colon, while upper endoscopy may not.

Similarities

• Both procedures are minimally invasive and use an endoscope to visualize the digestive tract.
• Both can be used for diagnosis and treatment of various gastrointestinal conditions.
• Both may involve sedation to improve patient comfort.