Diagnostics: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)

Also known as Upper GI Scope, EGD is usually performed by a gastroenterologist or general surgeon to visually evaluate the esophagus. Biopsies and dilation may be performed as adjuncts to this procedure.

What is an esophagogastroduodenoscopy?

An esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), often referred to as an upper endoscopy, is a commonly used diagnostic procedure for examining the inner lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. This procedure involves the insertion of a flexible tube equipped with a tiny camera through the mouth and passed through the throat, esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small bowel, allowing healthcare providers to visually assess for various abnormalities such as inflammation, bleeding, ulcers, polyps, or unusual growths. In addition to visual inspection, biopsies can be taken for further analysis, and therapeutic interventions such as control of bleeding can be administered through the endoscope. EGD is typically undertaken to investigate symptoms like swallowing difficulties, persistent abdominal discomfort, symptoms of reflux, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Dilation of a narrowing, injection of epinephrine to help stop bleeding, obtaining a sample of tissue (biopsy) for microscopic analysis may also be included with this procedure. The esophagogastroduodenoscopy procedure is generally regarded as safe and with easy recovery.