Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is an examination of the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and upper duodenum with a small camera (flexible endoscope) which is inserted down the throat.

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy; Upper endoscopy; Gastroscopy

You will be given a sedative and an analgesic (painkiller). You should feel no pain and not remember the procedure. A local anesthetic may 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.

In most cases, an intravenous line will be inserted into your arm to administer medications during the procedure.

You will be instructed to lie on your left side.

After the sedatives have taken effect:

• The endoscope is advanced through the esophagus (food pipe) to the stomach and duodenum. Air is introduced through the endoscope to enhance viewing.
• The lining of the esophagus, stomach, and upper duodenum is examined, and biopsies can be taken through the endoscope. Biopsies are tissue samples that are reviewed under the microscope.
• Different treatments may be performed, such as stretching or widening a narrowed area of the esophagus.

After the test is completed, food and liquids will be restricted until your gag reflex returns (so you don't choke).

Images

Gastric endoscopy

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Review Date: 10/15/2009
Reviewed By: Todd Eisner, MD, Private practice specializing in Gastroenterology, Boca Raton, FL, Clinical Instructor, Florida Atlantic University School of Medicine. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)