Upper Endoscopy

About the procedure

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD or gastroscopy) provides a direct view of the lining of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum (the small intestine, just beyond the stomach), with lighted instruments. This area is thoroughly inspected, and may be photographed. Following is a short explanation of what you might expect before, during and after your visit.

Why has my doctor scheduled an EGD for me?

Upper GI endoscopy can be helpful in the diagnosis of various problems, including difficult
or painful swallowing, pain in the stomach or abdomen, bleeding, ulcers, and tumors.

Preparation

It is important for the stomach to be empty before an EGD is performed, so the doctor can
completely examine the area. This usually requires having nothing to eat or drink on the
day of the test. After scheduling your exam, the doctor’s staff will send you instructions,
which you must follow completely. When scheduling the exam, please be sure that the
doctor knows about any medical problems or allergies that you have, and the medications
that you take.

When you arrive

Refer to “Planning Your Visit.”

During and after the procedure

When it is time for the procedure, you will be wheeled to a procedure room and placed on a monitor, your throat may be sprayed with a numbing medication, before the exam starts. Sedation will be given, at intervals, to relax you and help to keep you comfortable through the procedure. Professional staff members will watch your condition closely, monitoring heart, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, during and after the test.

If the doctor sees or suspects something abnormal during the procedure, he or she may remove a small portion of tissue (biopsy), for evaluation under a microscope. The lining may be brushed and sent for analysis of abnormal cells (cytology). Often, small growths (polyps) can be completely removed, using a wire loop and electric current (polypectomy). A narrowed portion (stricture) may be stretched to a more normal size (dilation). If an area of bleeding is found, the bleeding may be stopped using electric current (cautery). There is always a possibility that complications may arise, but they are usually very minor and extremely rare.

Recovery room

After the procedure has been completed, you will be wheeled to the recovery area, to be monitored until you are more fully awake. Your driver may sit with you at this time, and your doctor will speak with you there. You may be given some fluids to drink. You will stay in this area for approximately 30 to 45 minutes, be given instructions relating to your recovery, and then be discharged to the care of your driver. You will not be able to drive a car, operate dangerous machinery, or drink any alcohol for the remainder of the day. Unless you are told otherwise, you should be able to resume most of your normal activities the following day.