EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) examines the esophagus, stomach and duodenum under monitored anesthesia. Patients undergoing EGD should not have anything to eat or drink for eight hours prior to the examination.

In this procedure, a gastroscope is inserted into the mouth through the esophagus then passed down to visually assess the gastric tract lining. If needed, bleeding is stopped, tissue biopsies are taken, and the esophagus and pylorus are dilated. Your physician may order an EGD if you have experienced:

• Anemia
• Diarrhea
• Chronic nausea or vomiting
• Reflux or heartburn
• Difficulty swallowing
• Food “stuck” in esophagus
• Bloating
• Blood in stool
• Abdominal pain
• Abnormal X-ray findings
• Other gastrointestinal problems