What is the test?

This test is ordered by your GI doctor to evaluate the upper portion of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The upper GI tract includes the esophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine called the duodenum. Your doctor will use a flexible, slender camera scope to evaluate this area.

Why do we do the test?

An EGD is ordered for a variety of reasons that include but are not limited to heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), swallowing trouble, and abdominal symptoms including pain, bloating, and/or diarrhea. Your doctor may also intend to perform biopsies or another therapeutic procedure based on your history.

How to prepare?

Following your visit in the office or phone call with a nurse we will set up a time and date for your procedure. Depending on your circumstance, you may need special accommodations including advanced anesthesia or a hospital setting. The majority of our procedures can be performed in our ambulatory surgery center located right here at 1375 Washington Avenue. We will give you instructions on which medications are OK to take and which medications you may need to hold. Please inform your provider if you take diabetes medications or blood thinners (ie. Aspirin, Plavix, Warfarin) so we can give you special instructions. We recommend that all of our patients refrain from eating for 6 hours prior to their procedure, this allows plenty of time for your stomach to empty. Please always make arrangements to have a friend or family member accompany you to the procedure and drive you home.

What to expect?

When you arrive to our ASC or one of our partner hospitals, you will be checked in and brought to our pre-procedure area. Here you will meet with our nurses and an intravenous (IV) catheter will be inserted into your hand or arm. This small tube will allow your doctor to administer sedation for the test. The majority of our cases are performed under conscious sedation, this is not general anesthesia and you may experience wakefulness at times, and our goal is to make you as comfortable as possible. Safety is always our number one priority. When the procedure is completed you will be brought to the recovery area and your doctor will update you with results prior to your departure. If a biopsy is taken, the result will be sent to you typically within 7-10 days.

Risks

A routine EGD is quite safe. Rare, but serious risks of the procedure include bleeding, damage to the intestine including perforation, medication allergy, infection, and breathing issues. If you have questions regarding the risks please discuss with your provider.