Upper Endoscopy – Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)

An endoscope is a thin, flexible tube, which has its own lens and light source. The images from the endoscope are projected on a monitor, which allows endoscopists to visualize the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach and beginning of the small intestines (duodenum). EGD allows us to visualize, biopsy (take a piece of tissue) and treat various different diseases including acid reflux, trouble swallowing, stomach ulcers, abdominal pain, and bleeding. Patients are sedated with anesthesia so that they feel no discomfort and do not remember the procedure. EGD is an extremely safe, short (10-20 minutes) outpatient procedure that can be very useful for diagnosis and treatment of many GI diseases.

What is an Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)?

An EGD, also called an upper GI endoscopy, is a medical procedure that helps to treat and diagnose issues in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract including acid reflux, trouble swallowing, stomach ulcers, abdominal pain, and bleeding. The upper GI tract examined during EGD is composed of the esophagus, stomach, and beginning of the small intestine (also known as the duodenum).

The actual procedure involves the use of an endoscope, which is a thin, flexible tube. That tube has a small video camera and light on one end. The tube will be inserted into your mouth and down the throat. From there, it will be carefully moved through the esophagus and stomach and beginning of the small intestines (duodenum). Images from the camera can be seen by the doctor on a monitor. EGD is an extremely safe, short (10-20 minutes) outpatient procedure that can be very useful for diagnosis and treatment of many GI diseases.

What Can Be Done With an EGD?

Some tools may be inserted into the endoscope to do various procedures. These devices will allow a doctor to take tissue samples if a biopsy is needed or remove food or debris from the upper GI tract. Bleeding can also be stopped, and some surgical procedures can be done with an endoscope.

Why Would I Need an Upper GI Endoscopy?

A doctor will suggest an EGD to find what is causing specific symptoms, like the following:

• Issues swallowing
• Loss of weight
• Stomach or chest pain (non-heart related)
• Continuous vomiting for no known reason
• Bleeding in the upper GI

Also, the EGD can be used to find problems or determine disorders like the following:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Blockages or narrowing
• Esophageal veins that are larger than normal
• Benign and cancerous tumors of the stomach, esophagus and small intestines
• Damage caused by caustic substances
• Gastric ulcers
• Celiac disease
• Upper GI tract infections

An endoscopy of the upper GI is also used to treat problems in this area of the body. The most common uses are explained below:

• Controlling bleeding
• Removing polyps or tumors
• Dilating narrowed areas
• Removing stuck items
• Inserting tubes for feeding into stomach
• Banding unusual veins in the esophagus to treat or prevent bleeding

What Are the Risks of EGD?

Various complications from EGD include bleeding, infection, or tears in the lining of organs. However the risks of these complications is extremely low. EGD is an extremely safe, short (10-20 minutes) outpatient procedure. There may also be other risks unique to your circumstances. You should always ask your doctor about these things before choosing a procedure.

What Should I Do Before an EGD?

Your doctor will explain what happens during the procedure and allow you to answer any questions. You will then sign a consent form for the procedure that will enable it to be done. An empty stomach allows for the best and safest examination, so patients should have nothing to eat or drink, including water, for approximately 8 hours before the examination.

What Happens During the Procedure?

When you come in for the procedure, you will remove any clothing and jewelry that might get in the way during testing. You may also be given a gown to wear. The doctor (anesthesiologist) or nurse will start an IV, and a sedative will be added to it. You will then lie on your side on the examination bed with your head bent forward. The exam will not begin until you are asleep. At this time, the doctor will insert the tube and guide it to through the mouth into the upper GI tract. The tube will be taken out after the procedure is concluded. You will then be taken to the recovery area to wake up from your anesthesia.

Upper Endoscopy & EGD in Dallas, Tx 

Are you interested in learning more about EGD or medical conditions that may require this procedure? We invite you to contact us to learn more. Dr. Prashant Kedia is a therapeutic endoscopist and gastroenterologist serving patients in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and beyond. Call today to schedule an appointment at (214) 941-6891.

Appointment for Upper Endoscopy in Dallas, Tx