The purpose of this study was to evaluate two methods of obtaining culture material under direct visualization through a fiberoptic upper gastrointestinal endoscope. Collections were made both with a wash pipe and a sterile brush through a sterilized Olympus D panendoscope. Paired aspirate collections were made on 20 occasions from 10 postgastrectomy and six nonoperated patients. Significant bacterial overgrowth was identified equally well by both methods, the the wash tube, which can be reused, is cheaper. The endoscopic method for collecting proximal fluid for culture is simple and can be performed during a routine endoscopy.