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EGD The tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach is your esophagus. Muscles in the lower esophagus act as a valve to prevent the return of food, stomach acid and other digestive enzymes into the esophagus. Also commonly referred to as an upper endoscopy, the endoscope during this procedure is passed through the mouth. Prior to the procedure, a numbing agent may be sprayed (in addition to your IV sedative).
The procedure usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes. Possible complications of an upper endoscopy include bleeding and puncture of the stomach lining. However, such complications are rare. Most individuals will probably experience nothing more than a mild sore throat afterwards. Ice chips, warm salt water and/or a spray like Chloraseptic may help ease the discomfort. When the value in one’s lower esophagus is not working properly, stomach contents may flow back into the esophagus. This is called reflux, which can lead to GERD. GERD can occur with or without visible damage to the esophagus. During the EGD, visible damage such as surface erosions or deeper ulcerations can be identified. Also, your physician can determine if you have a hiatal hernia. In this condition, a portion of the stomach extends through the opening in the diaphragm through which the esophagus normally descends. While this condition is seen frequently in association with more serious grades of GERD, it can also occur in otherwise healthy individuals. In addition to medication, diet changes and exercise can help. Another condition called stricture (abnormal narrowing of the esophagus) may be present during the EGD. This can be the result of fibrous scar tissue formed during the healing of ulcers or erosions of the esophagus lining caused by GERD. Patients with stricture usually experience difficult swallowing. Such strictures often occur in conjunction with hiatal hernias. |
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Your stomach and duodenum must be empty for the procedure to thorough and safe, so you will not be able to eat or drink anything after midnight prior to your EGD. As with a colonoscopy, inform your physician in advance if you are taking aspirin products, or an anticoagulant like Coumadin. Also, let your doctor know if you are allergic to any drugs.