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.
What Are the Benefits of an EGD?
Undergoing an esophagogastroduodenoscopy is beneficial for multiple reasons. It can permit your GI specialist to directly examine your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (which is the first portion of the small intestine). Some of the primary advantages of an esophagogastroduodenoscopy include:
- Allows for polyp removal, the biopsy of tissues, and other small procedures
- Generally, it is a safe, quick, and efficient process
- Helps in detecting multiple digestive conditions (such as GI infections, Crohn's disease, GERD, celiac disease, and others)
- Can help diagnose the causes of symptoms, such as heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and pain
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.
EGD FAQs
Are an EGD and upper endoscopy the same procedure?
It is common to hear an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) referred to by a variety of names. In some instances, it may be referenced as a "gastroscopy" or an "upper endoscopy." Although these names may vary, they are generally the same thing as an esophagogastroduodenoscopy.
What are considered "normal" results for an EGD test?
Receiving normal results for an EGD typically indicates that your GI provider did not find abnormal tissues in the upper GI tract. However, normal results may be represented by a smooth texture and normal color in the esophageal, stomach, and duodenal areas. Furthermore, there should be no signs of inflammation, bleeding, or growths within these structures. It is important to understand that a "normal" result does not always rule out all health conditions. Some conditions may not be detectable with this type of exam or could be present in another part of the gastrointestinal tract outside the reach of the endoscope utilized during the procedure.
In what cases would an EGD be recommended?
Your Arizona Digestive Health doctor might order an esophagogastroduodenoscopy test if you have Crohn's disease or liver cirrhosis to help monitor these medical concerns. Additionally, an EGD test may be requested should you experience:
- Tarry or black stool
- Vomiting of blood
- Heartburn
- Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen
- Trouble swallowing
- Unintentional loss of weight
- Persistent nausea
What do I need to bring to my EGD appointment?
When you arrive at the facility for your EGD exam, you may be required to complete a few forms. Therefore, it is important to bring your ID and insurance card with you to your appointment. It can be beneficial to carry a written list of any nonprescription and prescription medications you might take, their dosages, and the conditions for which you take them. We advise that you keep jewelry and other valuables at home.
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.
EGD Videos
Reviews
I have become a patient of Sumir Patel, beginning 3 years ago when he discovered, via EGD, the persistent burning in my chest and stomach was advanced esophageal cancer. His attentive, compassionate and professional attitude was helpful then. He directed me to the best treatment available. And with his “family friend” personality, through another EDG just last week, he was able to report the miracle of No Sign of Disease. Dr Patel’s service and training have been invaluable to me personally.
To date I have only registered and interviewed for two procedures scheduled for early February. This process was very smooth and professional, as were my several previous interactions (about 20 years) with Dr Yalam and his staff. Specifically he is combining the colonoscopy and EGD which is superior for the patient!
Very knowlegdible and easy to talk to doctor. Answered all my questions and concerns.
I have been going to Dr Patel for at least 10+ years for my GI needs from EGD’s to Colonoscopy’s.. I’ve always been well taken of and been made to feel comfortable. Him and his staff are kind and caring. I’m so glad I was referred to him years ago!!
I have had a total of 3 EGD/colonoscopy procedures in the last several years and Dr Randolph has been my choice for 2 of those. I had my 3rd this morning and I was happy to have Dr Randolph at the helm. He meets with me before the procedure to layout the expectations and afterward to let me know how it went. Things were good today and I'm good to go for another 5 years.
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