Upper GI Test? Is it required?

**chrissy72w** · 03-15-2013 11:19 AM

I'm at the beginning of my journey and I see that an Upper Gi test is part of the process. Is this for everyone or just those with a history of GI issues? I know that compared to surgery, this should be the least of my worries but I'm just curious. I have Aetna insurance, if that matters. Thanks!

**StinaMinuh** · 03-15-2013 11:30 AM

I don't think it's a matter of insurance companies requiring it-my surgery was approved prior to my Upper GI (I have Blue Cross Blue Shield by the way.) The Upper GI is conducted because it takes internal pictures of your stomach and the swallowing process. It allows the surgeon to have a "look" at your internal systems prior to surgery so that they can do their job more effectively. People's bodies are different, the Upper GI helps ensure they do things right.

**Treadmill Love** · 03-15-2013 11:35 AM

I was private pay. I never had gi issues but my surgeon still had me take one. His reason was to see if I would be a better candidate for the bypass surgery, the bypass cures gi better than sleeve.

**chrissy72w** · 03-15-2013 11:36 AM

Thanks! That makes total sense. Still not looking forward to it but you gotta do, what you gotta do.

**Treadmill Love** · 03-15-2013 11:42 AM

Thats the same thing I said!

good luck!!
The only bad part is when the white chalk like stuff comes out :/

**Grace** · 03-15-2013 11:57 AM

In the grand scheme of things, an upper GI is pretty easy stuff. It's possible they are looking to see how much if any reflux you have and/or if you have a hiatal hernia. Also, it just helps them see your current flow rate. It's good they are doing it. I've had probably 15 of them in my life, I was born with stomach issues. No big deal. Takes all of an hour.l

**jknox65** · 03-15-2013 12:30 PM

Was by my doctor but he wanted to be aware of any hiatal hernia or other issues so he could address while in there.

**GA400** · 03-15-2013 12:39 PM

I have Aetna and they required it for approval. I was on the three month fast track approval which required Upper GI/full bloodwork, exercise psychologist visits monthly, nutritionist monthly, and psychiatrist/psychologist clearance, multi year history of weight from my PCP, and a recommendation from my PCP.

**lyrehc** · 03-15-2013 04:45 PM

I never had an upper GI test prior to my surgery, but I did have an H-pylori test beforehand. And afterward I had the swallow test so they could make sure everything was okay.