EGD is performed to examine the upper GI tract for signs of disease or a cause of symptoms.  It allows direct visualization of the inside of the esophagus, stomach and the first portion of the small intestine (duodenum).  It is performed under intravenous sedation, after numbing the gag reflex with a gargle medication.  A small flexible camera instrument is passed orally. During the examination, the physician may take biopsies, photographs, cultures, etc.  Results of these may take a few days to return, however the physician may let you know immediately if he suspects disease based on the endoscopic appearance. The exam is also performed as a therapeutic procedure, to dilate strictures, remove polyps, treat reflux, remove foreign bodies, treat bleeding ulcers as well as other applications. During the procedure your vital signs are closely monitored. The typical diagnostic procedure takes about 15 minutes to complete.  There is generally a 30 minute recovery period from the sedation medications.

The procedure is considered safe, although as with any invasive procedure there are certain risks.  These include (but are not limited to) the risk of sedation medication’s effect on breathing or blood pressure, injury to- or perforation of- the wall of the upper GI tract, and bleeding.  Other medical problems, such as heart or lung disease, may increase the risk of complications. Additional therapeutic procedures such as dilation, removal of polyps, stenting, use of cautery to ablate bleeding lesions, may also increase the risk of complications. *Your physician at Conway Endoscopy Center is a “Board Certified” Endoscopist that has completed a rigorous training program, specifically qualifying him to perform these procedures. This includes recognition of the appropriateness or inappropriateness of doing them, as well as the ability to recognize complications that may occur, and appropriate actions to be taken.