What is an upper endoscopy?
Upper endoscopy, also known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a medical procedure used to visualize and examine the upper digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). It is typically performed by a gastroenterologist or a surgeon who specializes in gastrointestinal disorders.
Who needs an upper endoscopy?
The procedure is usually performed to:
- Investigate symptoms: Upper endoscopy may be recommended when a patient experiences symptoms such as persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, unexplained weight loss, or gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Diagnose conditions: It helps in diagnosing various digestive conditions, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, gastritis, esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, celiac disease, and certain cancers.
- Obtain tissue samples: During the procedure, the doctor can take small tissue samples (biopsies) from abnormal areas for further analysis in the laboratory. Biopsies can help confirm or rule out specific diseases or conditions.
- Treat certain conditions: In some cases, therapeutic interventions can be performed during an upper endoscopy. For instance, the doctor can remove polyps, stop bleeding, dilate strictures (narrowed areas), or place stents to relieve obstructions.
How do you prepare for an upper endoscopy?
Before the procedure, patients are usually instructed to fast for a certain period, typically from midnight the night before the examination. This ensures that the stomach is empty, making it easier for the doctor to visualize the upper digestive tract. Sedation or anesthesia may be administered to help the patient relax and minimize discomfort during the procedure.
What should you expect from an upper endoscopy?
During an upper endoscopy, a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope is inserted through the mouth and passed down the throat into the esophagus and beyond. The endoscope contains a light and a small camera at its tip, allowing the doctor to observe the inner lining of the digestive tract on a monitor.
After the procedure, patients may experience a sore throat, bloating, or mild discomfort, which usually subside within a day or two. The doctor will discuss the findings and any necessary treatment or follow-up recommendations with the patient after the procedure.
What are risk factors of an upper endoscopy?
Upper endoscopy is generally considered safe, but it does carry some risks, although they are rare. These risks can include:
- Bleeding.
- Infection.
- Perforation (a small tear in the gastrointestinal tract).
- Reactions to sedation or anesthesia.
- Aspiration (inhaling stomach contents into the lungs).