Esophagogastroduodenoscopy

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a diagnostic procedure that allows a doctor to look at the inside of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a thin, flexible viewing tool called an endoscope.

Procedure

The procedure is performed by a gastroenterologist, a medical specialist who is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the digestive system. The patient is usually given a sedative and a local anesthetic to numb the throat. The endoscope is then gently inserted into the mouth and down the throat to the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.

Uses

EGD is used to diagnose and sometimes treat conditions that affect the upper part of the digestive system. These conditions include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastritis, ulcers, cancer, and bleeding in the digestive tract.

Risks

Like all procedures, EGD has some risks. These include bleeding, infection, and tearing of the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum. However, these complications are rare.

Preparation

Before the procedure, the patient should not eat or drink for several hours. Certain medications may need to be stopped or adjusted.

After the Procedure

After the procedure, the patient will be monitored until the sedative medication wears off. The patient may have a sore throat and may feel bloated because of the air introduced into the stomach during the procedure.

See Also

• Endoscopy
• Gastroenterology
• Digestive system

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