Welcome to Gastrodoxs! We are now going to go deep into upper endoscopy, also referred to as esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD. You have heard the saying pictures on the other side.That is what an EGD can do it provides the physician with a real-time view of the inside of your upper digestive system. In this post, we will describe how an endoscopy is performed, when you may need one, what it is able to see, and what to anticipate when undergoing an EGD test. We have incorporated quotations of one of the leading Houston gastroenterologists, Dr. Bharat Pothuri. Let's get started!
EGD or an upper endoscopy is a procedure in which the first part of your small intestine (duodenum), stomach, and esophagus are viewed with the help of a thin, flexible tube containing a camera. It is as though a small light, soft robot is sent into your body. Your doctor can view inflammation, ulcers, tumors or bleeding by using the camera because it provides a real-time video.
With an EGD we can see crystal-clear, high quality images, according to Dr. Bharat Pothuri. It is not so invasive as surgery and it gives quick answers to the patients of upper GI symptoms.
Being aware of your need to have an EGD procedure can make you receive the care you need when you need it. The following are typical causes of doctors in Houston or elsewhere suggesting upper endoscopy:
At what point are you required to do an EGD? Should your gastroenterologist be suspicious of something serious such as the esophagus of Barrett or a bleeding ulcer an upper endoscopy is usually the quickest method to detect and cure the problem, notes Dr. Pothuri.
Knowing the step by step working of an endoscopy can calm you down. The following is the average flow in a Houston outpatient center or hospital:
You get to see your gastroenterologist. You talk about symptoms, medical history and medications.
The question most people ask is, what is diagnosed through an upper endoscopy (EGD)? Here's a breakdown:
Dr. Pothuri says that an EGD is a diagnostic powerhouse. It does not only reveal to us problems, but also allows us to take to tissue samples to confirm a diagnosis, as seen under the microscope.
As you enter our clinic in Houston, you will be safe and secure, you will know that, Dr. Pothuri will assure you. “Our team explains each step.
| Procedure | Visualizes | Sedation | Biopsy Capability | Prep Required |
| Upper Endoscopy (EGD) | Esophagus, Stomach, Duodenum | Light to moderate | Yes | 6-8 hour fast |
| Colonoscopy | Entire colon | Moderate | Yes | 24-hour clear liquid |
| Capsule Endoscopy | Small intestine | No | No | 8-hour fast |
This table makes you understand why a doctor will decide to have an EGD when they want to have direct access to the upper GI tract.
With the help of an upper endoscopy (EGD), you have the key to clear, first-hand views of the upper digestive tract. It is safe, fast and extremely precise. In case you reside in Houston or any part of Texas, the Gastrodoxs team along with our partner clinics are always ready to help you with all the steps.
To learn more about the digestive health, refer to the Mayo Clinic on upper endoscopy and the National Institutes of Health on the guidelines on the procedures.
Ready to schedule your EGD? Today just call your Houston gastroenterologist and have a look at pictures on the other side!
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
The actual process normally takes 5-20 minutes. Add in recovery time, and schedule 1-2 hours at the clinic.
No. You get tranquilizers and local anaesthesia of the throat. The majority of patients recall not much or nothing.
No. Sedation is a deterrent to reaction time. You should have one of your friends or family members drive you.
EGD is very safe. Uncommon risks are bleeding at biopsy sites, or perforation (tear), less than 1%.
Hard solids, milk and non-water drinks. Clarity of liquids only two hours ago.
EGDs are usually performed with conscious sedation (you are relaxed but are awake). General anesthesia can be applied in the unusual situations.
Most individuals are back in the workplace less than 24 hours, basing on their occupation and their moods.
Very. It can detect even tiny lesions and biopsies can be used to verify diagnosis.
You might complain of some throat pain. Take diets and medications as per your doctor.
EGD is hospital covered by most plans in case of medical necessity. Ask your provider about it.
