Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

Overview

Upper Endoscopy, is also known as EGD (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy), is a medical procedure used to look inside your upper digestive system — including the esophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). Doctors use a thin, flexible tube with a camera called an endoscope to find out what’s causing symptoms like pain, nausea, difficulty swallowing or bleeding. It is a safe, commonly performed test that helps diagnose and sometimes treat issues in the upper GI tract.

Why Upper Endoscopy (EGD) is Required?

To investigate chronic heartburn, indigestion, or acid reflux.

If you have trouble swallowing or feel food is getting stuck.

To check causes of unexplained nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.

For diagnosing ulcers, infections, or tumors.

To detect bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

To perform biopsies if any suspicious area is found.

To remove polyps, food blockages, or treat narrowed areas.

Key Advantages of EGD Treatment

Offers clear visuals of the inner digestive system.

Quick and accurate diagnosis of many GI conditions.

Enables tissue sampling (biopsy) without major surgery.

Can be used for treatment — not just diagnosis for example stopping bleeding, removing growths.

Safer and less invasive than surgical procedures.

Provides answers when other tests (like X-rays or ultrasounds) are inconclusive.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Upper Endoscopy Treatment

Do not eat or drink for at least 6–8 hours before the procedure.

Inform your doctor about any medications, especially blood thinners or diabetes meds.

Tell your doctor if you have heart, lung, or bleeding disorders.

Arrange for someone to take you home after the test, as sedation may be used.

Avoid alcohol or smoking the day before the test.

How Upper Endoscopy (EGD) Treatment is Performed?

The procedure is done in a hospital or clinic setting.

You may receive a mild sedative through an IV to help you relax.

A numbing spray may be applied to your throat to reduce discomfort.

The egd scope, a thin flexible tube with a camera, is gently inserted through your mouth.

The doctor guides the tube into your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.

The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

1. Before the Procedure:

You will be asked to fast and arrive early.

A consent form will be signed.

You may receive a sedative to stay relaxed.

2. During the Procedure:

You will lie on your side.

The doctor inserts the egd scope gently.

You may feel slight pressure or bloating, but no pain.

3. After the Procedure:

You will rest until the sedative wears off (about an hour).

You may have a sore throat or mild bloating.

Results are shared the same day or after biopsy reports.

Risk and Potential Complications

Sore throat or bloating (temporary).

Rarely, bleeding, especially if a biopsy is taken.

Infection, though very rare.

Tear or perforation of the GI tract (extremely uncommon).

Mild reaction to the sedative.

Results/Outcomes

Provides valuable insight into upper GI conditions.

Detects ulcers, tumors, infections, and inflammation.

Helps start early treatment plans or perform immediate treatment.

If biopsies are taken, results usually come in a few days.

Overall, it’s a highly successful and low-risk procedure.