Upper Endoscopy
Upper endoscopy is a way to inspect the esophagus, stomach, and first portion of the small intestine (duodenum). The procedure is also called an EGD, or esophagogastroduodenoscopy, to more precisely identify the three areas it inspects. A Northwest Gastroenterology provider may recommend upper endoscopy for patients with swallowing disorders, chronic heartburn, upper abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, diarrhea, iron-deficiency anemia, unintentional weight loss, or other upper gastrointestinal issues.
What to Expect
Prior to the procedure – The patient is attached to monitors so the physician and nurse can observe heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen level; provided with a plastic mouthpiece to protect the teeth; and sedated (with IV medications) to allow insertion of the scope over the tongue and into the esophagus. The steerable scope has a light source, suction channel, and biopsy channel, the last of which can also be used to infuse water to clean the stomach.
During the procedure – A biopsy forceps may be inserted to take tissue samples, a catheter may be inserted to collect fluid from the small intestine, or a dilator may be inserted to stretch a narrowing in the esophagus. The entire process generally takes approximately 20 minutes. The sedative medications can affect memory for a short period, so it is not unusual to have no recollection of the procedure or talking with the physician afterwards.
How to Prepare
You will receive sedation for this procedure, and you must have an escort over the age of 18 to drive you home or accompany you in an Uber, taxi or public transportation. Walking or riding a bike or motorcycle is not an acceptable means of transportation regardless of escort. Unescorted transportation is not permitted unless you take a medically approved transport service.
Plan to take it easy on the day of procedure. Plan not to drive, work, operate any equipment, sign any important papers, drink alcohol, or take any sedatives on the day of the procedure. You can resume your normal activities the following day.
You may find it useful to visit our website, www.nwgastroendo.com, to view educational videos, helpful hints, and frequently asked questions.
On the night before your procedure, stop eating at 11 PM. You may continue to drink clear liquids until the time listed below. Clear liquids include water, fat-free broth, Jello, coconut water, clear fruit juices, non-cola soft drinks, coffee or tea (no milk/creamer), popsicles, clear hard candies, electrolyte drinks such as Gatorade/Powerade. Liquids that are red, purple or bright blue or have pulp are not allowed.
Take your regular medications, including aspirin, with only a sip of water, unless instructed otherwise, before the time written below
No food allowed on procedure day. At __________ (3 hours before check-in) STOP drinking ALL liquids- this includes water. Nothing further by mouth: no hard candy, no gum and no chewing tobacco
