Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, (EGD), is a procedure for upper gastro intestinal ailments, such as reflux, esophagitis, gastritis and ulcer disease.

• EGD is an examination of the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and upper duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) with an endoscope (a lighted, flexible tube), which is inserted down the throat.
• After the patient is given an IV and is sedated (either moderate or deep sedation) the doctor will pass the tube through the mouth and back of the throat into the esophagus, stomach and duodenum and a picture or a video will be taken.
• The EGD procedure checks for ulcers and other abnormalities the patient may have. If necessary, an instrument can be passed through the tube to take a small piece of tissue (a biopsy) for examination in the laboratory.