Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) in Washington
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Find a ProviderWhat is esophagogastroduodenoscopy?
An esophagogastroduodenoscopy, or upper GI endoscopy, is an endoscopic procedure where a long, thin, soft tube, or “scope,” is situated into a patient’s mouth and snaked to the small intestine. The scope has a light and camera on the end, which allows our GI specialists at Washington Gastroenterology to look effortlessly at the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and the start of the small intestine.
An esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is performed to determine the cause of GI issues, like abdominal pain, heartburn or acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, bleeding, or unusual findings from an x-ray. An EGD may also be performed for Washington patients with persistent heartburn to look for signs of esophageal cancer. Should you need an EGD, please request a consultation with a local GI specialist at Washington Gastroenterology.
What should I expect the day before my upper endoscopy?
You will be given instructions from your gastroenterologist regarding the needed preparatory steps for an EGD. Most patients will be allowed to eat normally on the day leading up to the upper endoscopy. You may be instructed not to take anything by mouth after midnight except for necessary medications. It is essential to follow the requirements provided by our team at Washington Gastroenterology. We’ll also give you additional directions regarding your medications. Generally, you won't need to make any changes to your medication regimen. This may not be true of all medications, particularly those on blood thinners (i.e., Coumadin®, warfarin, Plavix®, aspirin, anti-inflammatories) or for diabetics. In these cases, our team will provide different instructions.
What can I expect on the day of my EGD?
You will be asked to arrive at our Washington office approximately 1 – 1.5 hours prior to your procedure. You will be asked to replace your clothes with a medical gown. An intravenous (IV) catheter will be put in your arm or another area so we can begin the sedation process. You will be connected to special equipment that will allow your GI specialist to monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and more during and after your EGD.
After getting to the exam room, you will be asked to lie on your left side on our exam table. IV sedation will be started. From there, we’ll gently insert the endoscope into your mouth. The endoscope will be strategically snaked through the esophagus, stomach, and the first portion of the small intestine, the duodenum. We will inject a small amount of air through the scope into the gastrointestinal tract, which will help us see better. Any fluid left over in the upper gastrointestinal tract will be suctioned through the endoscope. Depending on the exam findings, various things could be done, including biopsies, the removal of polyps, and the control of bleeding. You can expect the exam to take approximately 10 – 20 minutes. Following the exam, you will be taken to one of our comfortable recovery rooms to be monitored while the sedation starts to wear off.
When will I get my exam results?
Once the exam is complete, our GI specialist will go over the outcome of the exam with you. Many patients can’t remember what they were told later on because of the effects of IV sedation. We encourage you to bring someone with you with whom the results can also be shared. We can also give you a typed-up report of what we discussed. You will likely be informed of any biopsy results in about a week.
What are the risks of an EGD?
Typically, an EGD, or upper endoscopy, is very safe. Generally, difficulties occur in about 1% of cases. Most complications are not life-threatening; however, if a complication occurs, it might result in hospitalization and surgery. Before beginning your EGD, a consent form will be reviewed with you by the nursing staff. Should you have any questions or concerns, these can be discussed with our team ahead of your EGD.
Such as any other test, an EGD is not foolproof. There is a slight, established possibility that irregularities, like cancers, may go unnoticed during the EGD. It’s imperative to keep up with our gastrointestinal provider and let them know of any recent or constant symptoms.
What are the alternatives to an upper endoscopy?
To an extent, your alternatives to the esophagogastroduodenoscopy will hinge on the reason for needing an EGD in the first place. Typically, an upper endoscopy is the standard way to test for and address any suspicious findings in the upper GI tract. An upper GI/barium swallow, a particular type of x-ray, can also assess your upper GI tract. This is, however, just a diagnostic test. The treatment of any findings would require an EGD or other surgery.
Treat your GI symptoms with an EGD
If you or someone you love is undergoing unpleasant problems, such as consistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, or intestinal pain, you might benefit from a diagnostic EGD. You can find an expert gastroenterologist who offers an EGD in Washington by contacting our team. Get in touch with a local Washington Gastroenterology today to request an appointment with a provider near you.
Reviews
Great staff as always! The staff and Dr. Manam make an unpleasant procedure painless and quick. I truly appreciate all of them!
I have been seeing Dr. Schwartz for many years. He is the BEST! I would not know what to do if I couldn't see him anymore. He is very caring, and considers your entire health. He communicates well. He has guided me through several surgeries and procedures with outstanding results. I can't recommend him highly enough!
Dr Mohan has been my Gastroenterologist for the past 15 years. He continues to help me manage a long term chronic condition.
Dr. Ojeaburu has been my doctor for about the last 10 years. He has always been very good to provide answers to questions, he has a very nice bedside manor and does a good job!
The staff was professional, friendly and courteous throught the entire process.
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