What is EGD?
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), also called upper endoscopy, is a diagnostic and sometimes therapeutic procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth and down the throat. It allows direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. EGD is commonly performed to investigate symptoms such as persistent heartburn, abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, unexplained nausea, or gastrointestinal bleeding. In addition to diagnosing conditions, EGD can be used to take tissue biopsies, remove foreign objects, treat bleeding, or dilate narrowed areas.
This procedure helps to:
- Detect ulcers, inflammation, or bleeding.
- Identify tumors, strictures, or blockages.
- Evaluate chronic GERD symptoms.
- Obtain biopsies for infection or cancer testing.
- Provide therapeutic interventions such as dilation or bleeding control.
What to expect after EGD?
The procedure is performed under sedation to ensure comfort. Patients may experience mild throat soreness afterward, which usually resolves quickly. Because of sedation, patients should plan for rest and avoid driving for the remainder of the day.
- Sedation ensures a pain-free experience.
- Mild throat irritation afterward is common.
- Resume light meals after recovery unless instructed otherwise.
- Rest is recommended for the remainder of the day.
- A companion should accompany patients home.
