The upper endoscopy is done at the hospital but is an outpatient procedure. You will be given sedation for this exam, so you will need a family member or friend to drive you home.
Once sedated, Dr. Rosenbaum will insert a small camera attached to a thin, flexible tube into the mouth and down the esophagus toward the stomach. This allows him to visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first portion of the small intestines). If he sees any abnormalities, such as an ulcer or inflammation, he can take biopsies through the scope with the aid of special instruments.