What Does an EGD (Upper Endoscopy) Diagnose?
An EGD (Upper Endoscopy) is a procedure that allows doctors to examine the upper digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. At Digestive Disease Care, our board-certified gastroenterologists use EGD to diagnose conditions such as ulcers, inflammation, and cancers. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Babylon NY, East Setauket NY, Forest Hills NY, Jamaica NY, Jericho NY, Lake Success NY, Melville NY, Mineola NY, Massapequa NY and New Hyde Park NY.


Table of Contents:
What is an EGD (Upper Endoscopy)?
Why is an EGD performed?
Do I need to prepare for an EGD?
Can an EGD be used to treat problems?
Digestive Disease Care prioritizes your digestive health with advanced diagnostic and treatment procedures, including EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy).
An EGD (Upper Endoscopy) is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the upper digestive tract using a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope. This tube, equipped with a light and camera, is gently guided through the mouth and throat to capture high-resolution images of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum, helping physicians diagnose and plan treatment for digestive conditions.
An EGD is typically recommended for patients experiencing symptoms like persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, or gastrointestinal bleeding. It helps identify issues such as inflammation, ulcers, tumors and other abnormalities and can be used to take biopsies to further investigate conditions like peptic ulcers, gastritis, or celiac disease. Additionally, an EGD is useful for screening for esophageal or stomach cancer.
At some clinics, therapeutic procedures can also be performed during an EGD. This may include removing polyps, dilating narrowed areas of the esophagus, or placing stents to keep passageways open. Preparation for the procedure typically involves fasting and sedation or general anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort. While post-procedure symptoms like mild throat discomfort or bloating may occur, they are usually temporary. Your physician will provide instructions for recovery and discuss any findings with you for a clear understanding of your digestive health.
At our clinic, we are committed to delivering safe and effective diagnostic therapeutic solutions.
At Digestive Disease Care, we prioritize comprehensive evaluation and effective management of gastrointestinal health. One of the essential diagnostic tools we employ is the Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), a procedure that provides critical insights into the health of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
An EGD (Upper Endoscopy) is performed to diagnose and assess a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions, particularly when patients experience symptoms like persistent difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, upper abdominal pain, or chronic heartburn. These symptoms could point to various issues, including esophageal disorders such as acid reflux, Barrett’s esophagus, and esophageal cancer. It may also help diagnose gastric disorders like stomach ulcers, gastritis and potential malignancies, as well as duodenal disorders such as duodenal ulcers and intestinal bleeding.
Beyond diagnosis, an EGD allows specialists to perform therapeutic interventions. These include taking biopsies to detect abnormalities and help create personalized treatment plans. The procedure can also widen narrowed areas in the digestive tract to improve swallowing and overall digestive function. In cases of gastrointestinal bleeding, EGD can be used for hemostasis, effectively controlling bleeding. Stents may be inserted to keep the esophagus or stomach pathways open, and foreign bodies that have been ingested can be safely removed to prevent obstructions.
At our practice, an EGD is not just a diagnostic tool but a key part of our comprehensive approach to digestive health. By incorporating EGD into our services, we improve our ability to diagnose, treat, and enhance outcomes for our patients, ensuring they receive personalized care of the highest standard.
Preparation is essential for a successful EGD (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy) and accurate results. Fasting for at least 8 hours before the procedure is required, which means no food or drink, including water, after midnight on the night before your appointment. This ensures your stomach is empty, providing a clear view of your digestive system and reducing risks like aspiration.
It’s important to review all medications with your doctor, especially blood thinners, as they may need adjustments to minimize bleeding risks. You should also inform your healthcare provider about any allergies, medical conditions, or past reactions to anesthesia, as this helps you choose the safest sedation options for you. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing is recommended, as you may need to change into a gown. Please remove jewelry, piercings, and contact lenses to avoid interference with the procedure.
During the EGD, sedation will be administered to keep you relaxed and comfortable, and your vital signs will be closely monitored throughout. Afterward, you’ll rest for a short period in the recovery area before leaving. Due to the effects of sedation, arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home. Your doctor will provide post-procedure instructions, including dietary recommendations and any activity restrictions.
At Digestive Disease Care, we strive to make your EGD experience smooth and stress-free. By following these preparation guidelines, you help us ensure your procedure is safe and provide the valuable insights needed for your diagnosis and treatment planning.
At our practice, we leverage advanced procedures like the Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) to offer comprehensive care for upper gastrointestinal issues. This minimally invasive procedure enables our expert physicians to examine and treat the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, providing both diagnostic insights and therapeutic solutions for various digestive conditions.
An EGD can be used not only for diagnostic purposes but also to treat a variety of gastrointestinal issues. It is effective in addressing esophageal and duodenal narrowing. These treatments help relieve swallowing difficulties and improve quality of life.
In cases of gastrointestinal bleeding, EGD can be used to control hemorrhages with techniques. Additionally, EGD allows for the safe removal of polyps or benign tumors, reducing symptoms and the risk of obstruction or cancer. It can also be used to retrieve foreign objects from the digestive tract, resolving obstructions or irritations promptly.
For patients with swallowing difficulties, EGD enables the placement of feeding tubes or stents to maintain nutritional intake and facilitate food passage through narrowed areas. EGD is also used to manage conditions like Barrett’s esophagus, with advanced treatments that reduce the risk of esophageal cancer. Furthermore, EGD provides the opportunity for biopsy and tissue sampling, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions such as celiac disease or infections.
At Digestive Disease Care, we understand that while EGD is an important diagnostic tool, it may be combined with medications, surgery, or lifestyle changes for comprehensive care. Our team is committed to discussing all treatment options to tailor care to each patient’s needs and goals. Contact us today or schedule an appointment to learn how EGD can help diagnose and treat your digestive health concerns. We have convenient locations to serve you in Jamaica NY, Melville NY, New Hyde Park NY, Forest Hills NY, Jericho NY, Mineola NY, Lake Success NY, Babylon NY, East Setauket NY, Massapequa NY and BEYOND.

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