Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (EGD)
An EGD is for the purpose of examining your esophagus, stomach and duodenum to see if there are any abnormalities of the upper digestive tract.
WHAT OCCURS DURING THE EXAMINATION?
The doctor will use a small, lighted, inserting a small, flexible, lighted tube (endoscope) thinner than most fo the food you swallow to examine the lining of the upper idgestive tract. We will numb your mouth and throat ans use tranquilizers to relax you. We won't obstruct your breathings passages. We make a special effort to keep you comfortable. In fact. most patients don't even remember the procedure.
ARE THERE ANY POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS?
EGD is safe and is associated with a very low risk. Complications can occur but are rare. Complications include hemorrhage (bleeding), perforation (tearing of the esophagus or stomach, pneumonia or an adverse reaction to one of the medications. You must tell the doctor of allergies or peculiar reactions you have had to medicines, particularly novocains and medicines that dentists use for deadening teeth, also tranquilizers and pain killers. In very rare circumstances death could result from a complication. However, we have had no deaths. It should be emphasized that complications are extremely rare. This is a routine procedure in our hands and we are extrememly careful.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER EGD?
You can expect a mild sore throat lasting one or two days. You can use lozenges for relief. Do not eat or drink for one (1) hour (your throat will be numb and we don't want anything to go down the wring "pipe"). You should not drive for 24 hours after the procedure.
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
- Do not drink or eat anything after midnight before the procedure.
- Have someone else drive you because you will be sedated. Please arrive promptly.
- Do not dress elegantly. This way we won't have any problems with stains from gargle or sprays. Leave earrings and other jewelry at home.
- Bring your clinic card, courtesy card, insurance card or Medicaid card with you. If you do not have insurance or other financial coverage, you will need to make financial arrangements ahead of time in our Business Office before the day of your exam.
- If you have any questions you can contact our office