Procedures

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

• Heartburn, Hiatal Hernia and Reflux (GERD) Evaluation
• Detection and Treatment of Barrett’s Esophagus
• Dilation of Strictures
• Diagnosis and Management of Celiac Disease
• Diagnosis and Management of Peptic Ulcer Disease
• Evaluation of Gastrointestinal Bleeding and Anemia

This information was developed by the Publications Committee of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE). For more information about ASGE, visit www.asge.org. This information is intended only to provide general guidance. It does not provide definitive medical advice. It is important that you consult your doctor about your specific condition.

Upper Endoscopy

Upper endoscopy (EGD) helps your doctor evaluate symptoms of upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or difficulty swallowing by allowing your doctor to examine the lining of the upper part of your gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach and duodenum (the first portion of the small intestine). Your doctor will use a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope, which has its own lens and light source, and will view the images on a video monitor.

Preparation

An empty stomach allows for the best and safest examination, so you should have nothing to eat or drink, including water, for approximately six hours before the examination. Your doctor will tell you when you should start fasting as the timing can vary. Tell your doctor in advance about any medications you take; you might need to adjust your usual dose for the examination. Discuss any allergies to medications as well as medical conditions, such as heart or lung disease.

Procedure

Your doctor might start by spraying your throat with a local anesthetic or by giving you a sedative to help you relax. You’ll then lie on your side, and your doctor will pass the endoscope through your mouth and into the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. The endoscope doesn’t interfere with your breathing. Most patients consider the test only slightly uncomfortable, and many patients fall asleep during the procedure.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy encourages you to talk with your healthcare provider about colon cancer screening and encourages everyone over the age of 50 to undergo the appropriate screening. If your primary healthcare provider has recommended a colonoscopy, you can find a physician with specialized training in these GI endoscopic procedures by using the free Find a Doctor tool on ASGE’s Web site at www.screen4coloncancer.org. For more information about colon cancer screening, visit www.screen4coloncancer.org.