Overview
Upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, or esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a test that looks at the lining of the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum, which is the top part of the small intestine. An endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a light and a camera on the end, is used to do it. The doctor can see inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, tumours, or structural problems on the images displayed on a monitor. Along with making a diagnosis, the same procedure can also include minor treatments such as a biopsy, removal of small growths, or stopping bleeding. Most of the time, it is done in a hospital or an outpatient setting.
Why It's Done
Upper GI endoscopy is done to find out what is causing symptoms like persistent heartburn, trouble swallowing, pain in the upper abdomen, unexplained nausea or vomiting, bleeding in the digestive tract, or unexplained weight loss. It helps doctors determine whether someone has gastritis, peptic ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), celiac disease, or certain types of cancer. Finding something early lets you get treatment right away and stops problems from getting worse.
What to Expect?
Patients are asked to fast for 6 to 8 hours before the procedure to ensure their stomachs are empty. A review of the patient's medications and medical history has been completed. A local anaesthetic spray may be used to numb the throat during the procedure, and mild sedation is usually given to make the patient more comfortable. The endoscope is carefully put in through the mouth and guided down the oesophagus to the stomach and duodenum. To make it easier to see, air can be added to expand the area. If needed, small tissue samples (biopsies) are taken. Most of the time, the procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes. After that, patients are watched until the sedation wears off. You may feel some throat pain or mild bloating.
Recovery & Outlook
Most patients recover quickly and go home the same day. You shouldn't drive for 24 hours because of the sedation. Upper GI endoscopy is a safe and effective way to diagnose and treat digestive system problems.