WHAT IS AN EGD (UPPPER ENDOSCOPY)?
- An EGD is a procedure performed to directly visualize the lining of the esophagus, stomach and 1st part of the small intestine (duodenum) using a flexible scope with a camera and a light on the end of it.
- The scope is passed through the mouth while the patient is sedated
WHY IS AN EGD (UPPPER ENDOSCOPY) PERFORMED?
- EGD is the best way to evaluate for peptic ulcer disease, esophagitis, gastritis, strictures or narrowing of the esophagus, Barrett’s esophagus, celiac sprue, and helicobacter pylori infection.
WHAT IS AN EGD (UPPPER ENDOSCOPY) INDICATED?
- Evaluate the source of upper abdominal pain
- To screen for Barrett’s esophagus in patients with longstanding heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease
- As part of a work-up of anemia
- Evaluation of gastrointestinal bleeding
- Evaluate the cause of difficulty swallowing or feeling like food gets stuck or hung up on the way down when swallowing
- Evaluation of persistent nausea and vomiting
HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR AN EGD (UPPPER ENDOSCOPY)?
- Patients should avoid eating all solid foods at least 8 hours prior to an EGD and clear liquids at least 4 hours prior to ensure that the stomach is empty and the lining is able to be properly visualized.
WHAT CAN I DO AFTER AN EGD PROCEDURE?
- Following the procedure and during recovery from sedation, patients generally feel well but they may feel drowsy and their reflexes can be affected. For this reason, patients are not permitted to drive home after the procedure and will need someone to drive them.
- Patients will generally leave the facility approximately 30 minutes after their procedure and can eat after the procedure is completed. We generally recommend that patients eat a bland and non-greasy meal as they recover from sedation
- Patients should not plan to go back to work, drive, operate machinery, or sign any important documents for the remainder of the day
