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Upper Endoscopy (EGD)This guide is for patients who are going to have an upper endoscopy esophagastroduodenoscopy, or EGD. It answers some of the most commonly asked questions. Please don't hesitate to ask your doctor or nurse for more information.
What is an EGD? What is an EGD?An EGD is a procedure involving the use of an endoscope, a lighted, flexible tube, about the thickness of your finger. The doctor will pass the tube through the mouth and back of the throat into the esophagus, stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). The procedure checks for ulcers and other abnormalities. If necessary, an instrument can be passed through the tube to take a small piece of tissue (a biopsy) for examination in the laboratory. Biopsies are done for many reasons and don't necessarily imply cancer. Often during this process of diagnosis, your doctor may perform other minor procedures that will benefit you. How do I prepare for the test?Please contact your primary care physician or insurance company if prior referral is needed. The procedure will take about 30 minutes, but expect the visit to the Medical Procedures Unit to last four (4) hours to allow for preparation and recovery. You may eat your normal diet the day before the procedure, until midnight. After midnight, do not drink or eat anything. Take your medications with a few sips of water no later than four (4) hours before your appointment. If you are taking pain medication, you may do so up to four hours before the test. The day of the test - important information
How is the procedure performed?In the preparation/reception area you will answer questions about your health history, current medicines and allergies. You will sign a consent form. After you change into a hospital gown, a nurse will start an intravenous line (IV). The IV is used to give you medication to make you more comfortable during the procedure. The procedure is performed in a room specially designed for endoscopic procedures. Equipment that will help the nurse and doctor monitor your heartbeat and breathing will be connected to you. Your throat will be numbed with a spray and you will be sedated before the doctor passes the tube through your mouth into your stomach. You will be able to breathe normally and burp if needed during the test. There usually is no pain associated with this test, even if a biopsy is done. Are there any potential complications?Complications are extremely rare. However, there are potential complications associated with all medical procedures. These will be explained to you at the time you sign your consent for the procedure. Who will perform the procedure?A doctor specially trained in gastrointestinal procedures will perform the test. The doctor who ordered your procedure will make decisions regarding your plan of care. How long is the recovery?After your procedure, you will be taken to the recovery area in the Medical Procedures Unit. One member of your family may join you there. When you are ready to go home, the nurse will discuss instructions and answer your questions. You will be given a copy of the procedure report. The procedure will take about 30 minutes, but expect the visit to the Medical Procedures Unit to last two to three hours to allow for preparation and recovery. You may NOT drive yourself home. Be sure to bring a responsible adult licensed driver with you. A responsible adult will need to be with you when you are discharged from the recovery area. If your driver cannot accompany you for the entire procedure visit, please have them call (734) 936-9250, option 2 to confirm that they will be available when you are discharged. Can I resume normal activity when I return home?You will be given specific written instructions about resuming your activity,medications and diet.
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