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2630 Grant Line Road
New Albany, IN 47150
Phone:
812-945-0145
Fax: 812-949-5435
825 University Woods
Drive, Ste. 2
New Albany, IN 47150
Phone:
812-945-0145
Fax: 812-949-5443
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The doctors of Gastroenterology of Southern Indiana must often perform
routine procedures for the evaluation and treatment of many digestive tract
problems. The information below is meant as a reference only and should
not be used as diagnostic treatment.
EGD-Upper Endoscopy
(Esophagogastroduodenoscopy)
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General information
Upper Endoscopy is also known as an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy).
This procedure uses a fiberoptic instrument that is placed into the
stomach after intravenous analgesics have been administered. Thus,
with the fiberoptic scopes, a visual evaluation of the upper
gastrointestinal tract can be done. The areas studied with this
test are the esophagus, the stomach, and the upper duodenum.
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Reasons for exam
There are many disorders which can involve the upper GI tract which
can be diagnosed or followed using endoscopy. Common symptoms
which may lead to endoscopy are heartburn, pains in the stomach or
chest, gastrointestinal bleeding, difficulty in swallowing, nausea and
vomiting.
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Equipment
The endoscope is a thin flexible lighted tube which is passed through
the mouth and is capable of seeing the upper GI tract. It contains
a minute optically sensitive computer chip in the tip which transmits
the signal onto a video screen. Dials permit the physician to
steer the instrument in every direction. A channel through the
instrument permits suctioning or the collection of samples. Other
instruments can be passed through this channel to take biopsies, remove
polyps, or stop bleeding. Only the most state-of-the-art equipment
is used.
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Benefits
EGD is the most accurate means of identifying abnormalities in the upper
GI tract. It can be performed safely and with minimal discomfort
for you. In addition to providing a diagnosis, in many cases it
enables the physician to perform specific treatment. Bleeding can
be controlled, polyps removed, and obstructions relieved.
Abnormalities that may be detected include:
- Ulcers--breakdowns in the lining of the organs
- Esophagitis--inflammation of the esophagus
- Gastritis--inflammation of the stomach
- Infections
- Tumors or Cancer
- Obstructions--blockage or narrowings
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Risks & side effects
No test is 100% accurate and infrequently EGD can miss abnormalities
which are present. A mild sore throat occasionally follows the
procedure. You may have a feeling of bloating which is also
temporary. Complications are very uncommon. Bleeding can
occur following a biopsy or removal of a polyp, but it is usually
minimal and rarely requires a blood transfusion or surgery.
Oversedation occurs infrequently and almost always can be reversed.
A localized irritation of the vein can occur at the IV site resulting in
a tender lump which may last for several weeks. Application of hot
moist towels may relieve the discomfort. Other risks include
complications of underlying heart or lung disease and reactions to one
of the sedatives. Perforation (a tear in one of the organs) is
exceedingly rare and occurs in approximately one in 4,000 cases.
Any of these complications could involve hospitalization, emergency
surgery, or in an exceptionally rare case, death. |
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