Upper Endoscopy (EGD) in India
Also known as EGD, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, gastroscopy, upper GI endoscopy
The short answer
Upper endoscopy in India costs between USD 150 and USD 400 for international patients, against USD 1,500 to USD 4,000 or more for the same procedure in the US. A thin, flexible scope with a camera examines the oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine, and can also take a biopsy or treat certain findings in the same sitting. It is a quick, generally low-risk procedure with same-day discharge.
About Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Upper endoscopy, or EGD, examines the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a thin, flexible scope with a light and camera, passed through the mouth. It is used to investigate persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, unexplained abdominal pain, or suspected ulcers, and can diagnose conditions like GERD, gastritis, ulcers, coeliac disease, and early-stage cancers.
Procedures Available
A standard diagnostic endoscopy examines the tissue lining and takes photographs for the record. A biopsy is commonly taken during the same procedure when tissue needs closer laboratory examination, such as to test for H. pylori infection or coeliac disease. Therapeutic endoscopy extends the procedure to treat findings directly, such as removing a polyp, dilating a narrowed section of oesophagus, or controlling minor bleeding, avoiding the need for a separate procedure later.
Cost
The estimate covers the consultation, sedation, and the endoscopy itself. A biopsy adds a modest lab processing fee. Therapeutic procedures performed during the same endoscopy, such as polyp removal or dilation, cost more than a purely diagnostic examination given the added time and technique involved.
How Long the Trip Takes
Most patients plan for 2 to 3 days in India, covering a same-day or next-day procedure once symptoms and history are reviewed, and a short recovery period from sedation before travelling, along with time to discuss results and next steps if a biopsy was taken.
Choosing a Hospital
Choose a gastroenterology department with modern high-definition endoscopy equipment, since image quality directly affects how reliably small or subtle findings are detected. If biopsy results are relevant to your case, confirm turnaround time for lab results before you plan to leave India, since waiting for pathology can add a day or two.
Why patients choose India for this
Upper endoscopy in India costs a small fraction of the same procedure in the US or UK, with comparable equipment and technique.
The procedure can typically be arranged within a day of consultation, without the waiting times common in some public healthcare systems abroad.
Biopsy, polyp removal, or minor bleeding control are commonly done in the same sitting as the diagnostic examination, saving a return visit.
India's leading GI departments perform endoscopy at scale, giving specialists routine familiarity across a wide range of findings.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD) cost
| Country | Indicative cost |
|---|---|
| India — with Nobel Medi Assistance | $150 – $400 |
| United States | $1,500 - $4,000 |
| United Kingdom | $900 - $2,500 |
| Singapore | $700 - $1,500 |
| Turkey | $250 - $500 |
Figures are indicative for international patients and depend on the hospital, the surgeon and your reports. Your exact cost is confirmed in writing after a specialist review — free, and with no obligation.
What the estimate covers
Included
- Consultation with the gastroenterologist
- The endoscopy procedure itself
- Sedation
- Routine biopsy, if taken during the procedure
- Follow-up consultation to review findings
Not included
- Flights and visa fees
- Accommodation outside the clinic
- Advanced biopsy testing beyond standard pathology, if specifically requested
- Therapeutic intervention fee, such as polyp removal or dilation, if not confirmed in advance
- Treatment for a condition identified during the procedure
- Additional imaging or tests requested after the initial findings
How Upper Endoscopy (EGD) is done
- PreparationFasting for several hours beforehand ensures a clear view of the stomach lining.
- SedationLight sedation or a throat-numbing spray is administered, depending on patient preference.
- Scope insertionThe endoscope is gently passed through the mouth and guided down the oesophagus into the stomach and duodenum.
- ExaminationThe gastroenterologist examines the lining, capturing images and taking a biopsy if needed.
- Intervention, if neededA polyp removal, dilation, or other treatment is carried out in the same sitting if the findings call for it.
- RecoveryThe patient rests briefly as sedation wears off before being discharged the same day.
Recovery and what to expect
- First few hoursMild throat discomfort and grogginess from sedation are common and settle quickly.
- Later the same dayMost patients resume normal eating once fully alert, unless a therapeutic procedure requires a modified diet.
- Day 1-2Biopsy results, if taken, are typically available and discussed at a follow-up consultation.
- Week 1Full recovery, with any recommended treatment plan based on the findings underway.
Specialists who perform this
Dr Ajay Kumar Kriplani
Gastrointestinal Surgeries 👑 44+ years
Dr Rakesh Durkhure
Bariatric & Minimal Access Surgery 👑 25++ years
Dr Adarsh Chaudhary
Gastrointestinal Surgeries 👑 45+ years
Dr Atul N.C. Peters
Gastrointestinal Surgeries 👑 26+ years
Dr Sandeep Aggarwal
Gastrointestinal Surgeries 👑 30+ years
Dr Mayank Manjul Madan
Gastrointestinal Surgeries 👑 24+ years
Dr Dinesh Singhal
Gastrointestinal Surgeries 👑 30++ yearsWhere it is done
Frequently asked questions
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What would your Upper Endoscopy (EGD) cost?
Send your reports and a senior specialist sends back a written plan with costs within 24 hours. Free, with no obligation.