Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) in St. Louis, MO
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Find a ProviderWhat is esophagogastroduodenoscopy?
An esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is an endoscopic exam where a long, slender, flexible tube, or “scope” as it is also known, is inserted into our patient’s mouth and snaked to the beginning of the small intestine, known as the duodenum. The scope includes a light and camera at the end, which helps our providers at a Specialists in Gastroenterology location in your community to more easily examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of the small intestine.
An esophagogastroduodenoscopy is performed to discover the cause of gastrointestinal problems, like abdominal pain, heartburn and/or acid reflux, complications with swallowing, bleeding, or irregular x-ray results. An EGD may also be performed for St. Louis, MO patients with chronic heartburn to screen for signs of esophageal cancer. Should you need an EGD, please request a consultation with a gastroenterologist at your nearest Specialists in Gastroenterology location.
What happens the day before My esophagogastroduodenoscopy?
You will receive directions from your GI specialist regarding the required preparation for an EGD. Most patients will be allowed to maintain their normal diet in the days leading up to the EGD. You may be instructed not to take anything by mouth after midnight except for necessary medications. It is very important that you follow the instructions provided to you by your Specialists in Gastroenterology GI provider. We will also provide extra guidance for any medications you take. In most cases, you can take your medications as you normally would. However, there are certain situations where this may not be true, especially if you are taking blood thinners (i.e., Coumadin®, Plavix®, warfarin, anti-inflammatories, aspirin) or if you have diabetes. In these cases, our team will give you special instructions.
What can I expect on the day of my EGD?
We will ask you to get to our St. Louis, MO office at least an hour before your exam. You will be asked to change into a medical gown. An IV will be started in your arm so we can begin the sedation process. We’ll have you connected to special equipment that allows your GI specialist to monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and much more throughout your exam.
Once in the exam room, we’ll have you relax on your left side on our exam table. IV sedation will be started. Once you are sedated, we’ll gently insert the endoscope into your mouth. The endoscope will be strategically advanced through the esophagus, stomach, and the first portion of the small intestine. We will inject a small amount of air through the scope into the gastrointestinal tract to help our team to have a clear vision. Any fluid left over in the upper GI tract will be removed through the endoscope. Depending on the exam results, various things can be done, such as biopsies, the removal of polyps, and the control of bleeding. Typically, the exam takes approximately 10 – 20 minutes. Following the exam, you will be taken to one of our private recovery rooms so we can monitor you as the sedation starts to wear off.
When can I expect my results?
After the exam, our team will go over the findings of your examination with you. Many patients won’t remember what they were told following their exam because their brains will be foggy from the IV sedation. We encourage you to bring someone with you for a second pair of ears. You will also go home with a typed report. In most cases, you will be informed of any biopsy results in about a week.
What are the risks of an EGD?
Most often, an EGD is a safe and reliable procedure. Overall, complications occur in less than 1% of cases. Typically, these complications are not fatal; although if a complication develops, it could require hospitalization and surgery. Before your exam, a consent form will be reviewed with you by the nursing staff. Should any questions or concerns arise, these can be discussed with your provider ahead of your EGD.
Like any other test, the EGD is not absolute. There is always a slight, known risk that irregularities, such as cancers, might be missed during your EGD. It’s crucial to maintain regular visits with your specialist and inform them of any new or persistent symptoms.
What are the alternatives to an esophagogastroduodenoscopy?
Generally, the alternatives to the esophagogastroduodenoscopy will depend on why you need an EGD in the first place. Usually, an EGD is the most effective way to test for and diagnose any suspicious findings in your upper GI tract. Although, the x-ray called an upper GI/barium swallow can evaluate your upper GI tract as well. This is, however, only a diagnostic analysis. Treating these findings might require an EGD or other surgery.
Take control of your symptoms with an EGD
If you or a family member is experiencing troublesome symptoms, like heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and/or abdominal discomfort, then a diagnostic esophagogastroduodenoscopy could help you find a diagnosis. You can find a talented gastroenterologist who offers an EGD in St. Louis, MO at one of our locations. Get in touch with your nearest Specialists in Gastroenterology location today to schedule your EGD.
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Wow! I’ve been dealing with IBS for years. Other doctors’ solutions have ranged from stop worrying to stop eating broccoli. Finally a doctor who gets to the cause and not just dealing with symptoms. I can’t tell you how grateful I am to finally resolve this issue. Dr. Weinstock is excellent and the staff are very friendly and helpful. Highly recommend!
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Dr. Leonard Weinstock is the ultimate professional physician. My procedure was efficient and thorough. I feel comfortable with Dr. Weinstock.
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