An EGD can detect inflammation, ulcers, tumors, or abnormal growths that could indicate serious digestive disorders. It can also be used to get biopsies of suspicious tissues or put in place medical devices like stents.
For many patients, an EGD provides critical information to guide the treatment and management of digestive conditions. So if your doctor orders an EGD, it’s important to understand why this test is being recommended.
How Is an EGD Performed?
The EGD procedure is carried out in a doctor’s office or medical center under conscious sedation to help you relax. A small flexible tube called an endoscope is inserted through the mouth into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. At the end of the endoscope is a tiny camera that sends images to a video monitor, allowing your doctor to closely examine the inner workings of your upper GI tract.
Several instruments can also be passed through the endoscope to take tissue samples, remove polyps, or control bleeding. A grasping device or biopsy forceps is often used to grab tissue samples which are then analyzed under a microscope. Bursting bubbles called cautery can also be applied through the endoscope to seal bleeding ulcers or blood vessels.
The entire EGD procedure usually takes 15 to 30 minutes to complete. Most people resume light activities within a few hours of the procedure. You will receive oral instructions from the doctor regarding diet, medications, and activities for the next day or two.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and heartburn
- Peptic ulcers
- Gastritis (stomach inflammation)
- Barrett’s esophagus
- Polyps
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Stomach tumors
- Hiatal hernia
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Food obstructions in the esophagus or intestines
The Benefits of an EGD
Early detection is key to improving health outcomes. An EGD can identify issues like GERD, ulcers, Hiatal hernias, or even cancer at a premalignant or early stage. The many potential benefits of this diagnostic procedure include:
- Detects esophageal, stomach, and duodenal abnormalities early.
- Allows biopsy of suspicious lesions for accurate diagnosis.
- Treats minor conditions detected during the procedure.
- Confirms or rules out GERD and assesses severity.
- Evaluates the effectiveness of acid-reducing medications.
- Prepares for other GI procedures.
- Provides symptom relief and reassurance.
- Monitors Barrett’s esophagus progression.
- Guides appropriate treatment options: medications, procedures, surgeries.
- Rules out abdominal emergencies like perforation or severe bleeding.
Prioritize Your Health and Quality of Life
An EGD offers significant benefits by enabling early diagnosis of gastrointestinal disorders and diseases. With early detection and customized treatment plans, most conditions can be well managed with minimal impact to patients’ quality of life and health.
If you have questions regarding your digestive health, weight loss, or bariatric surgery, don’t hesitate to contact Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgery Institute, P.C. provides diagnostics and treatments for issues with the stomach, colon, small intestine, and other digestive organs, as well as bariatric surgery. An EGD from our physicians can provide important answers about your digestive health.