Upper GI Endoscopy (EGD)

Upper GI Endoscopy is a visual examination of the lining of your esophagus, stomach and the first portions of your upper small intestine. This procedure is performed by passing a narrow long flexible instrument through your mouth while under sedation. Your physician will be able to look for any abnormalities that may be present. If indicated, small biopsies (tissue samples) will be taken and sent for analysis. Therapeutic modalities include dilatation (stretching), botox injection for swallowing disorders, removal of polyps and swallowed objects and treatment of bleeding.

Risks: The risks of upper endoscopy are uncommon (occurring in less than 1 in 1000 cases) and include, but are not limited to Perforation, Bleeding, Infection, the need of Surgery and Anesthesia. Be sure to notify your nurse or doctor should you have any sever pain, fever of bleeding following your procedure.

You must have a responsible adult to drive you home from your test or it will be rescheduled

Preparation: To allow a clear view of your stomach, it must be empty. For this reason, Do not eat or drink anything (except your normal medications) after midnight before your test. If you do take medication, take it with sips of water. Please discuss any questions regarding your medication with your physician prior to your procedure.

Please bring a list of your current medications with you on the day of your test.

What Will Happen: Upon arrival to your test facility you will be asked to check in. After this, you will be escorted to the pre-procedure area. The doctor and/or nurse will explain the procedure and answer your questions. Please tell them if you have had any other endoscopic procedures and if you have any allergies to medications. You will be asked to sign a consent form giving your permission to have the procedure. An intravenous line will be placed for medication to be given during your examination. Once in the procedure room, monitoring equipment will be placed so that your breathing, heart and blood pressure can be observed. You will be given sedation and once asleep, the examination will take place. The examination usually takes about 15 minutes.

Afterwards: You will be brought back to a recovery area and will be monitored until you are ready to leave. This usually takes between 20-60 minutes. For the remainder of the day you are not to drive, operate heavy equipment or dangerous equipment or make important decisions.