Upper Endoscopy (EGD) in Suwanee, GA
An upper endoscopy, also called an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), lets your gastroenterologist look directly at the lining of your esophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine.
Understanding Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
What Is an Upper Endoscopy (EGD)?
An upper endoscopy, also called an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), lets your gastroenterologist look directly at the lining of your esophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine. A thin, flexible tube with a light and camera is passed gently through the mouth while you are sedated.
Because the doctor can see the tissue in real time, an EGD often answers questions that symptoms and imaging cannot. Small tissue samples (biopsies) can be taken during the same procedure, and some problems can be treated on the spot.
Why Merus
Why Your Doctor May Recommend an EGD
An EGD is one of the most common procedures in gastroenterology. Reasons it may be recommended include:
- Frequent or long-standing heartburn and acid reflux
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing, or food that feels stuck
- Upper abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting that does not settle
- Signs of bleeding, such as black stools or iron deficiency anemia
- Biopsies to confirm celiac disease
- Monitoring for Barrett’s esophagus or ulcers
Understanding Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
What Happens During the Procedure
You will receive sedation so you are comfortable and relaxed, and most patients remember little of the procedure. The scope is passed through the mouth, and the doctor examines the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. The exam itself usually takes less than half an hour.
If needed, biopsies are taken painlessly during the exam. A narrowed area of the esophagus can sometimes be gently widened, and bleeding sites can be treated during the same procedure.
Understanding Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Preparing for Your EGD and Recovery
Your stomach needs to be empty, so you will be asked not to eat or drink for several hours beforehand. Let the office know about all of your medications, especially blood thinners and diabetes medications, since some may need to be adjusted. You will receive written instructions to follow.
Because of the sedation, you will need someone to drive you home, and you should plan to rest for the remainder of the day. A mild sore throat or bloating afterward is common and passes quickly. Dr. Moole will talk with you about what was seen, and biopsy results typically follow within a few days.
Book Your Visit
Schedule an Appointment
Merus Gastroenterology & Gut Health is accepting new patients. Book online or call (770) 400-0828.
FaQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an upper endoscopy painful?
Most patients feel little or no discomfort. You are sedated during the procedure, and a mild sore throat afterward is the most common side effect.
How long does an EGD take?
The procedure itself usually takes less than half an hour. Plan on a longer visit overall to allow for check-in, sedation and recovery.
Do I need someone to drive me home after an EGD?
Yes. Because you will receive sedation, you need a responsible adult to drive you home, and you should not drive or make important decisions for the rest of the day.
When will I get my results?
Your doctor can usually share what was seen right after the procedure. If biopsies were taken, those results typically come back within a few days.
What is the difference between an EGD and a colonoscopy?
An EGD examines the upper digestive tract through the mouth: the esophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine. A colonoscopy examines the colon and rectum. They answer different questions, and some patients need both.
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We specialize in gastroenterology, which we combine with promoting good gut health to make sure that every patient is given the best chance of a full and lasting recovery.