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Date issued: September 2022

Review date: September 2024

Ref: D-382

PDF:  Upper GI Endoscopy Support and Aftercare final September 2022.pdf [pdf] 393KB

Contents

1. CT scan

2. MRI scan

3. The multidisciplinary team and available support

4. Notes page

5. My Sunrise app

We understand you have been told that your endoscopy identified a suspicious abnormality, from which biopsies have been taken.

Whilst we await the results from your biopsies your Doctor may arrange for you to have further tests.  You will be contacted over the phone by the x-ray department to arrange an appointment.  This will happen within the next two weeks.

There are different tests that may be offered to you.

What is a CT scan? 

CT stands for Computerised Tomography. A CT scan uses x-rays to take detailed pictures of the inside of your body. It helps us find the cause of your problem and the best treatment options for you. A standard x-ray does not give the same level of detail as a CT scan. 

The most common CT scan following an endoscopy is a CT chest, abdomen and pelvis.

The radiographer will ask you to lie on a motorised bed, which will move slowly through the scanning machine. Unlike some machines, the CT scanner is not enclosed.  

You will need to lie very still whilst each picture is taken, to avoid blurring the images. You may also be asked to hold your breath for a moment. You should not feel any pain during the scan.  The scan usually takes 20 minutes. During the scan you will be required to have an injection, in your arm, of X-ray dye.

What is an MRI scan?

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scan) is a procedure that uses a magnet, radio waves and a computer to make a series of detailed pictures of inside your body.

You may be given a dye, either injected or swallowed, to help show the organs or tissue more clearly.

Like the CT scan, you will be asked to lie on a motorised bed. The radiographer may offer you earplugs as the MRI scan maybe quite loud. You should also be able to speak to the radiographer via a microphone.

MDT meeting

Once all your test results are available, a Multidisciplinary Team meeting (MDT) made up of all the specialists involved in your care, will review the results.  These meetings are held on a weekly basis.

After the MDT, you will be asked to attend a clinic or telephone consultation to explain the outcome of your tests and your ongoing management.

This consultation is a good opportunity to ask any questions you may have.  You may find it helpful to bring a family member or friend with you to this appointment.

We appreciate this will be an uncertain and worrying time for you, especially as your diagnosis is still not known. Throughout this process you will be supported by a specialist team of nurses who will be in contact with you and are available to answer any questions that you may have.

Support available: Upper Gastro-Intestinal Nurse Specialist Team    

Marilyn Bolter

Jen O’Reilly

Lizzie Bevan

Angela Bleasdale (cancer support worker)

01752 431528 9am -5pm Monday – Friday (Please leave an answerphone message and you will be called back)

The Mustard Tree Plymouth   

The Mustard Tree Macmillan Cancer Support Centre is available to anyone affected by cancer (at any stage of the illness). We offer a cosy and comfortable environment for patients, relatives, and carers to share concerns, ask questions and access a range of support.

01752 430060

Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm