EGD Test (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy)
EGD (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is a procedure that examines the esophagus, stomach and first portion of the duodenum (small intestine) using a long flexible tube with a camera at the tip. The scope is inserted into the mouth and positioned to the small intestine. An EGD test is a diagnostic and/or therapeutic procedure used to help in the diagnosis or treatment of stomach/duodenal ulcers, inflammation, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), cancer, or dysphagia (swallowing problems) and other problems in the upper gastrointestinal tract.
How to Prepare for the EGD Test
- No food or liquids (this includes water) at least 6 hours prior to the procedure.
- You could also have diet and/or medication restrictions the week prior to the exam. Please refer to our team for detailed instructions.
- Plan to take the day off from work for the procedure.
- Plan to have someone drive you home. Since the procedure is usually performed with intravenous sedation, you will be instructed to not drive a car or return to work until the following day.
- Contact our team and inform him or her of any special needs, medical conditions, latex allergy or current medications you are taking.
- Our team will contact you the evening before your procedure to answer any questions you may have about the EGD procedure.
What to Expect Once You Arrive for the EGD Test
- Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled exam time.
- Usually an intravenous line placed, since the EGD procedure is usually performed with intravenous sedation.
- You will be asked if someone is there to drive you home after the procedure.
- The exam usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
- During the procedure, there is often a feeling of pressure in the abdominal area.
- We may give you medication to help you relax and better tolerate the exam.
- Patients usually lie on their left side.
- During the exam the physician may take biopsies (small tissue samples) or remove polyps (growths on the lining of the stomach).
What to Expect After the EGD Test
- After the exam is completed you will recover for approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
- You may experience a sore throat after the exam.
- Once you have met the discharge criteria, we will discuss with you the preliminary findings.
- After the recovery period patients are able to go home and usually may eat right away.
- Diet and/or medication restrictions may be given to certain patients depending on the findings of the procedures.
- Patients are provided discharge instructions to take home.
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