Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

EGD, or Esophagogastroduodenoscopy is an examination of the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and upper duodenum (portion of the small intestine) using a flexible endoscope (camera) inserted down the throat.

This procedure is useful in diagnosing:

• Heartburn
• Difficulty swallowing
• Upper abdominal pain
• Unexplained bleeding or anemia
• Narrowing or tumors of the esophagus
• Type or extent of inflammatory bowel disease
• Swallowing difficulties
• Ulcerations of these areas
• Other conditions identified by your doctor

This procedure lasts 15-20 minutes and is done using sedatives, analgesics, and local anesthesia to inhibit the gag reflex.

Risks, though small, include apnea (not breathing), difficulty breathing, bradycardia (slow heart rate), spasms of the larynx, low blood pressure or excessive sweating. These symptoms, or black stools, blood in vomit, fever or pain should be reported to your doctor immediately.