Upper Endoscopy

Upper endoscopy is a procedure that your child might need if they have gastrointestinal (GI) issues that disrupt their daily life. Under the care of renowned pediatric gastroenterologist Israel Kochin M.D., your child receives the best care, and you can get the answers and solutions you need to help them feel better. Call the nearest office in the Midwood neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, or the Elmhurst neighborhood of Queens, New York, or book an appointment online today. 

What is an upper endoscopy?

An upper endoscopy is an outpatient procedure that can help determine the reason for gastrointestinal issues. An upper endoscopy is also a treatment approach in some cases.

When might my child need an upper endoscopy?

Your child might need an upper endoscopy if they’re having GI issues that warrant an in-depth investigation. For example, Dr. Kochin might order an upper endoscopy if your child is having symptoms, such as:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Acid reflux
• Unexplained weight loss
• Upper abdominal pain
• Chest pain that’s not heart-related
• Frequent unexplained nausea and vomiting

Dr. Kochin can also perform an upper endoscopy for other reasons, such as removing obstructions like a swallowed coin from the esophagus. 

He may also recommend an upper endoscopy to evaluate the effects of a new treatment approach, such as food elimination or reintroduction.  

What happens during upper endoscopy?

Your child receives a sedative and pain medication before the procedure, helping them become drowsy. While this “twilight sleep” state isn’t as deep as general anesthesia, your child won’t feel any pain during the procedure. 

Dr. Kochin sprays a local numbing agent in the back of your child’s throat before advancing a thin tube through their mouth and down their esophagus into the stomach. The tube won’t enter the trachea (windpipe) or disrupt breathing.

The endoscope’s tip contains a tiny camera and light source, allowing Dr. Kochin to examine your child’s esophagus (food tube), stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) in detail on a high-definition monitor.

Dr. Kochin may remove a tiny sample of tissue for testing (biopsy) during the test. Or, he may remove a growth or obstruction. 

Using the information gathered during the upper endoscopy, Dr. Kochin can recommend the optimal treatment approach for your child. 

How can I prepare my child for an upper endoscopy?

Before your child’s scheduled upper endoscopy, Dr. Kochin provides a list of procedure prep instructions. Generally, children need to fast (no food or liquid) for at least several hours ahead of the procedure. Before that time, they can have clear liquids but no solid food. 

Be sure to follow all upper endoscopy instructions closely, as this keeps your child safe and helps Dr. Kochin get the most information during the procedure.

Schedule your child’s upper endoscopy with a leading pediatric gastroenterologist by calling Israel Kochin M.D. or booking online today.