Brookings Health System

EGD

upper-digestive-tract.jpgIf you experience heartburn, stomach pain or other digestive discomfort, your medical provider may recommend you have an EGD performed.

EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), also known as an upper endoscopy or gastroscopy, is a procedure in which a surgeon uses a thin scope with a light and camera at its tip to look inside the upper digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine (duodenum). The scope is guided through the mouth and throat and then into the esophagus, stomach and small intestine while under sedation.

EGD is a same-day surgical procedure and is commonly used to diagnose the causes of:

  • Abdominal or chest pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Heartburn
  • Bleeding
  • Swallowing problems
  • Identify inflammation, ulcers and tumors

Surgeons can also treat abnormalities during an EGD, such as:

  • Removing stomach polyps
  • Taking biopsies for tissue analysis
  • Widening narrowed areas of the esophagus, stomach or small intestine
  • Removing objects stuck in the esophagus or stomach
  • Treating bleeding

Frequently Asked Questions

An upper endoscopy is a procedure that allows a provider to look inside your esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine using a thin, flexible camera. Also known as an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) or gastroscopy, it is used to diagnose and treat conditions that affect the upper part of the digestive system.

Your provider may recommend an upper endoscopy if you have symptoms like ongoing heartburn, stomach pain, difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, or unexplained bleeding. It helps diagnose the cause and guide treatment.

No, an upper endoscopy is not typically painful. Patients receive sedation to stay comfortable. You may have mild throat soreness afterward, but it usually goes away quickly.

Your provider will give you specific instructions to prepare for your upper endoscopy. In most cases, you’ll need to avoid eating and drinking for several hours beforehand so your stomach is empty. You may also be asked to temporarily stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, prior to the procedure.

Watch & Learn

Malynda Mabbitt shares her swallow study and upper endoscopy experience at Brookings Health System.

Theresa Oey, M.D.

Theresa Oey, M.D.

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Andrew Chontos, M.D.

Andrew Chontos, M.D.

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