EGD (Upper GI Endoscopy) in Arizona
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Find a ProviderWhat is an upper GI endoscopy?
Upper GI endoscopy, sometimes called EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), is an examination of the upper intestinal tract using a lighted, flexible, fiber-optic endoscope. The upper gastrointestinal tract begins with the mouth and continues with the esophagus (food pipe) which carries food to the stomach. The stomach secretes a potent acid and churns food into small particles. The food then enters the duodenum, or small bowel, where bile from the liver and digestive fluid from the pancreas mix to help the digestive process. If you are a candidate for an upper GI endoscopy in Phoenix, AZ then please contact Arizona Digestive Health to request a consultation.
When is upper GI endoscopy performed?
Due to factors related to diet, environment, inherited traits, and infection, the upper GI tract is the site of many disorders. Upper GI endoscopy helps in diagnosing, and often in treating, these conditions:
- Ulcers, which can develop in the esophagus, stomach or duodenum and occasionally can be malignant
- Tumors of the stomach or esophagus
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Upper abdominal pain or indigestion
- Intestinal bleeding, hidden or massive bleeding can occur for various reasons
- Esophagitis and heartburn, chronic inflammation of the esophagus due to a back up of stomach acid and digestive fluids
- Gastritis, inflammation of the lining of the stomach
If you are diagnosed or struggling with any of the above conditions, then an upper GI endoscopy in Phoenix, AZ may be able to help you. Our providers at Arizona Digestive Health routinely perform this procedure to assist patients like you.
How does an upper GI endoscopy work?
It is important not to eat or drink anything for at least eight hours before the exam. Your physician will provide instructions about the use of regular medications, including blood thinners and high blood pressure medications. It is advised that a companion accompany you to the examination. You will be given medications to sedate you during the procedure and you will need someone to take you home. Driving an automobile is not allowed after the procedure. Even though you may not feel tired, your judgment and reflexes may not be normal.
Upper GI endoscopy is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. Intravenous sedation is typically given to relax the patient, depress the gag reflex, and even cause short-term amnesia. For some individuals who can relax on their own and whose gagging can be controlled, the exam is done without intravenous medications. For others, deep sedation, where the patient is completely asleep, is utilized. The endoscope is then gently inserted into the upper esophagus. You will be able to breathe easily throughout the exam. Other instruments can be passed through the scope to perform additional procedures if necessary. For example, a biopsy can be done to obtain a small tissue specimen for microscopic analysis. A polyp or tumor can be removed using a thin wire snare and electrocautery (electrical heat).
If you have additional questions about the upper GI endoscopy procedure in Phoenix, AZ, then please speak to your provider at Arizona Digestive Health.
Advanced diagnostic tests for digestive health
The upper GI endoscopy offers patients and their doctors an effective tool for investigating troubling symptoms and abnormal test results. To obtain an upper GI endoscopy in Phoenix, AZ, reach out to our location to request a consultation. Our providers at Arizona Digestive Health are part of the nation's leading physician-led network of gastroenterologists and ensure to offer patient-centric care that helps the upper GI endoscopy and other diagnostic procedures be a comfortable and positive experience.
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EAST VALLEY GASTRO- Dr Panossian: The most caring physician I have seen in years. Not that the others have been bad, he is just several notches above. He is very upbeat, great bedside manner with exceptional communication. Took his time and seemed to really care to find the cause of my belly pain- even suggesting possibilities outside of his scope of practice. He's definitely one of the good ones. I'd recommend him to anyone!
Dr Panossian is a really great doctor. He answers all your questions and you never feel rushed. I feel very confident in his knowledge and care. Great bedside Manor. I wholeheartedly recommend him!!
My mom is a patient of Dr Panossian. He is wonderful, really listens, very professional and easy to talk to. I would highly recommend him to friends and co-workers.
Dr Panossian is very good at listening and letting you explain what's going on, he also tries different things to see if they will help you, he hasn't stopped trying different medications or procedures if necessary to see if they would help. He is a very good Doctor.
I have been a patient of Dr. Panossian for many years. He is the kindest man. He takes the time to listen and to answer my questions. I would recommend him to friends and family.
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