Upper Endoscopy
Upper Endoscopy, formally known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD for short, is a procedure that allows a gastroenterologist to evaluate a patient's upper gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
Why get an upper endoscopy?
There are a variety of reasons why your primary care physician or gastroenterologist might recommend an upper endoscopy. The most common reasons are:
- Gastroesophogeal reflux
- Upper abdominal pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Anemia
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Unexpected weight loss
What can an upper endoscopy detect?
Upper endoscopy allows for direct visualization of the lining of the upper gastrointestinal tract. This allows for detection of ulcers, inflammation, or other abnormalities.
Chronic gastroesophogeal reflux, or heartburn, may lead to changes in the lining of the esophagus, which has precancerous potential. In patients with longstanding heartburn, the ability to see the esophageal lining and to perform diagnostic biopsies is important in formulating a treatment plan.
Biopsies, or small tissue samples, can be taken to help diagnose problems and guide treatment. These samples are then sent to a pathologist for examination.
Upper Endoscopy Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How is the patient sedated?
A. An anesthesiologist administers sedation intravenously and monitors the patient throughout the endoscopy.
Q. How is the endoscope swallowed?
A. Before the patient is sedated, the back of his or her throat is numbered using a spray. Once the patient is sedated, the endoscope is gentled advanced into the patient's esophagus, which begins the upper endoscopy.
Q. Does the endoscope interfere with breathing?
A. During an upper endoscopy, the endoscope does not interfere with the patient's breathing.
Q. How long does an upper endoscopy last?
A. An upper endoscopy typically lasts anywhere from 8 to 15 minutes. The patient begins waking up several minutes after the procedure is completed.
The content on this website is for informational purposes only. The information on this website is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical professional. Always seek the advice of your qualified medical professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
