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Gastric endoscopy
Gastric endoscopy

EGD - esophagogastroduodenoscopy
Definition:

A test that involves visually examining the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and upper duodenum with a small camera (flexible fiberoptic endoscope) which is inserted down the throat.
Alternative Names:
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
How the test is performed:

You will be given a sedative and an analgesic. A local anesthetic will be sprayed into your mouth to suppress the need to cough or gag when the endoscope is inserted. A mouth guard will be inserted to protect your teeth and the endoscope. Dentures must be removed.

An IV may be inserted to administer medications during the procedure.

You are instructed to lie on your left side.

After the gag reflex has been suppressed by the anesthetic, the endoscope will be advanced through the esophagus to the stomach and duodenum. Air will be introduced through the endoscope to enhance viewing. The lining of these organs is examined and biopsies can be obtained through the endoscope. Biopsies are tissue samples that are reviewed under the microscope.

When the area has been viewed and any biopsies taken, the endoscope will be removed and you will be asked to cough to expel the extra air. Food and liquids are restricted until your cough reflex returns.

The test lasts about 30 to 60 minutes.
How to prepare for the test:
Fasting is required overnight (6 to 12 hours before the test). An informed consent form must be signed.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

How the test will feel:

The local anesthetic makes swallowing difficult. This wears off shortly after the procedure. The endoscope may stimulate some gagging in the back of the throat. There may be a sensation of gas and the movement of the scope can be felt in the abdomen. Biopsies cannot be felt.
Why the test is performed:

This test is helpful in determining:

  • the cause of upper GI (gastrointestinal) bleeding
  • the cause of swallowing difficulties
  • the presence of ulcerations or inflammation
  • the cause of abdominal pain
  • the condition of the stomach and duodenum after an operation
  • the presence of tumors or other abnormalities of the upper GI tract
  • inflammation, narrowing, or tumors of the esophagus
Normal Values:

The esophagus, stomach, and duodenum should be smooth and normal color. There should be no bleeding, growths, ulcers or inflammation.
What abnormal results mean:

An EGD may indicate:
What the risks are:

There is a small chance of perforation of the stomach, duodenum, or esophagus; or bleeding at the biopsy site. A patient could have an adverse reaction to the anesthetic, medication, or tranquilizer. This could cause:

The overall risk is less than 1 out of 1,000 people.
Special considerations:

If any of these conditions arise after the test, contact the health care provider:
Review Date: 5/1/2002
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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