EGD

Advanced Gastroenterology

Gastroenterologists located in Union City, TN & Martin, TN

When your symptoms indicate a potential problem in your esophagus or stomach, you may undergo an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) a common procedure that reveals the health of tissues inside your upper gastrointestinal tract. Dr. Kofi Nuako at Advanced Gastroenterology specializes in performing endoscopic procedures such as EGD, so he has the expertise you need to receive an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. If you have questions or need to schedule an EGD, please call the office in Union City, Tennessee, or use the online booking tool to book a consultation.

EGD Q & A

What is an EGD?

An EGD, or upper GI endoscopy, is an examination of the upper portion of your gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which includes your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of your small intestine).

The procedure is performed using an endoscope -- a long, thin, flexible tube that contains a camera and fiber-optic light -- that’s inserted through your mouth and slowly guided through your GI tract. The camera provides a detailed view of the tissues lining your GI tract, so Dr. Nuako can see inflammation and other GI problems.

Dr. Nuako can also treat problems while conducting an EGD by inserting small surgical tools through the endoscope. Procedures that he can perform include:

  • Taking tissue samples for a biopsy
  • Removing objects stuck in the GI tract
  • Removing polyps or tumors
  • Controlling bleeding
  • Opening a narrow or blocked esophagus

When do you need an EGD?

Dr. Nuako may recommend an EGD to determine the underlying cause of symptoms such as:

  • Swallowing difficulties
  • Indigestion
  • Abdominal pain
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Recurrent vomiting

Examples of some of the standard conditions diagnosed with an EGD include:

  • Gastroesophageal reflux
  • GI bleeding
  • Gastric or duodenal ulcer
  • Esophageal varices (large veins)
  • Infections
  • Hiatal hernia
  • Crohn’s disease of the upper GI tract

How do you prepare for an EGD?

Your upper GI tract must be empty, so you shouldn’t eat for eight hours before your procedure. You need to stop taking medications such as aspirin and blood-thinning agents several days before your EGD is scheduled. You’ll also have additional detailed and individualized instructions to follow before your appointment.

What happens during an EGD procedure?

You receive intravenous sedation to help you relax and to block pain, but you should be awake during the procedure. Dr. Nuako may also spray a numbing medication into the back of your throat, so you don’t gag when he inserts the endoscope.

You may feel some pressure as the endoscope moves through your GI tract; otherwise, you’ll be comfortable. You should also expect saliva to be suctioned from your mouth, just like when you have dental work done.

An EGD procedure usually takes less than 20 minutes. Since you can’t drive following sedation, you need someone on site to drive you home afterward, and you receive post-procedure instructions before you leave.

If you have questions about the health of your upper GI tract, call Advanced Gastroenterology or use online booking to schedule an examination.