Gastrointestinal endoscopy is a procedure performed using an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera) to directly view the inside of the upper digestive tract. It helps diagnose and treat symptoms and diseases of the esophagus, stomach, and upper intestine. It is also known as upper digestive endoscopy, panendoscopy, or gastroscopy. It is used to diagnose gastric ulcers (ulcers in the stomach). Endoscopy is an outpatient procedure; you do not need to be hospitalized or stay in the hospital. It is performed under sedation, which means you will be asleep and in a deep sleep. You will not feel any discomfort or pain.

Endoscopy is a fundamental procedure, not only for the diagnosis but also for the treatment of gastric ulcers (stomach ulcers), as it allows direct visualization of the ulcer, the taking of biopsies to identify the cause (such as the H. pylori bacteria), and the performance of therapeutic procedures such as stopping bleeding and injecting medication. This procedure confirms the presence and severity of the ulcer and guides subsequent treatment, which may include medications to eliminate the bacteria and/or reduce inflammation.