An Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a medical procedure that examines the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). An EGD exam is commonly performed by gastroenterologists who specialise in digestive system disorders.
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy is different from colonoscopy which examines the inside of the colon.
What Is An EGD Exam For?
An EGD exam is used for evaluation and diagnosis of conditions in the upper gastrointestinal tract. It may be done to investigate various symptoms such as severe heartburn, pain or difficulty in swallowing, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, nausea, vomiting of blood, or abdominal pain.
A medical professional may also use EGD to diagnose conditions like GERD, peptic ulcers, gastritis, Barrett’s esophagus (a precancerous condition), esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), or hiatal hernia. Furthermore, it may also be used as a screening tool to detect early signs of esophageal, stomach, or duodenal cancers.
How An EGD Test Is Performed
During an EGD exam, an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube) is inserted through the mouth of the patient, passing through the throat to reach the upper gastrointestinal tract. The endoscope is equipped with a light and a camera on its tip, allowing the examiner to visualize the inner lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum on a monitor.
A medical professional may also take tissue samples during an EGD for biopsy. Certain treatments may also be performed during an EGD, such as widening narrow areas of the esophagus.
The procedure is typically done under sedation or general anesthesia to minimize discomfort for the patient. It usually takes about 15-30 minutes to complete, although the duration varies depending on the specific circumstances.
What To Expect Before And After An EGD Test
Before an EGD, patients should refrain from eating or drinking for a period of time to ensure that the stomach is empty before the procedure.
After the examination, patients may experience some temporary throat discomfort or bloating due to the air introduced during the EGD exam.
Where To Get An EGD Test
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.
