Upper GI Endoscopy: Process, Price, Significance and Other Related Explanations

Upper GI Endoscopy Definition

Upper endoscopy (also called gastroscopy or esophagogastroduodenoscopy, EGD) is a medical procedure that uses an endoscopy scope to directly observe and evaluate the structures of the upper gastrointestinal tract. It is defined as follows: Upper endoscopy is a medical procedure that involves inserting a flexible endoscope (gastroscope) with a camera and light through the entrance of the upper gastrointestinal tract (mouth or nose) to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (upper small intestine) in sequence.

Upper endoscopy mainly evaluates the following organs:

• Esophagus: Check for inflammation, ulcers, strictures, varicose veins, or tumors.

• Stomach: Check the gastric mucosa for inflammation, ulcers, polyps, tumors, or bleeding.

• Duodenum: Check the duodenal bulb and descending part for ulcers, inflammation, or tumors.

Upper GI Endoscopy Price

The upper gi endoscopy price varies by country, healthcare system, hospital grade, insurance coverage, and whether additional treatment or biopsy is required. Here is an overview of prices in some countries or regions:

United States:

In the United States, upper endoscopy is more expensive, with an average cost between $800 and $3,000. If insurance is involved, the patient's out-of-pocket portion may be reduced, but the specific situation depends on the insurance plan. Private hospitals usually charge higher prices, while public hospitals or government-funded clinics may offer lower prices.

China:

In China, the upper gi endoscopy test price varies by region and economic level. The price in ordinary public hospitals is usually between RMB 300 and RMB 1,000, and if painless anesthesia (intravenous sedation) is required, the cost may increase to RMB 800 to RMB 2,000. The cost of high-end private hospitals or foreign-funded hospitals may be higher, which may reach RMB 2,000 to RMB 5,000.

India:

India attracts many international patients with its relatively low medical costs. The average endoscopy upper gi cost is between 5,000 and 15,000 rupees (approximately US$70 to US$200), and prices may be slightly higher in private hospitals.

Japan:

Upper endoscopy in Japan is more expensive but is covered by the National Health Insurance. The patient's co-payment is usually around 30%, and the actual cost may be between 10,000 yen and 50,000 yen (approximately US$90 to US$450), depending on the hospital and whether additional services are required.

Factors Affecting Upper GI Endoscopy Cost

1. Country or region

Medical costs vary significantly between countries and regions. Upper gi endoscopy cost are generally higher in developed countries (e.g., the United States, Japan, and the United Kingdom), while costs are relatively lower in developing countries (e.g., India and China).

The type of healthcare system (public or private) also affects prices. Public hospitals generally have lower costs, while private hospitals have higher costs.

2. Level of hospital or clinic

Higher-level hospitals (e.g., tertiary-level A hospitals, private high-end clinics, or teaching hospitals) generally have higher upper gi endoscopy cost than lower-level hospitals.

The reputation of the hospital and the advanced level of its equipment also affect upper gi endoscopy price.

3. Type of anesthesia

General examinations (local anesthesia only) are less expensive.

Painless examinations (intravenous sedation or general anesthesia) increase the cost of the anesthesiologist and the cost of anesthetic drugs.

4. Scope of examination

If the examination is limited to the esophagus and stomach, the cost may be lower.

If the examination is extended to the duodenum or more complex procedures (e.g., endoscopic ultrasound or capsule endoscopy) are performed, the cost will increase significantly.

5. Whether a biopsy or treatment is required

Simple examinations are less expensive.

If a biopsy sample is required, bleeding control is required, polyp removal is required, or other treatment is performed, the cost will increase significantly.

6. Doctor's experience and qualifications

EGD Test Meaning

Diagnosis: Endoscopy can help doctors diagnose diseases of the digestive system, such as gastritis, gastric ulcers, esophageal cancer, etc. In this way, doctors can observe the lesions and take tissue samples for biopsy to determine the nature of the disease.

Treatment: In addition to diagnosis, endoscopy can also be used to treat diseases of the digestive system. For example, an endoscope can be used to remove polyps, stop bleeding, and dilate a narrowed esophagus.

Risk management: Although endoscopy is a relatively safe procedure, you still need to be vigilant about possible complications, such as bleeding, infection, and digestive tract tears. Medical staff will prepare patients before the examination to reduce these risks.

Image generation: In some cases, endoscopy can be combined with ultrasound technology to generate images of the digestive tract wall, helping doctors to more accurately assess the condition.