Welcome to Gastrodoxs.com! Today, we’re diving deep into upper endoscopy, also called esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD. You may have heard the phrase “pictures from the other side.” That’s exactly what an EGD does—it gives doctors a live look inside your upper digestive tract. In this post, we’ll explain how an endoscopy works, when you might need one, what it can detect, and what to expect during an EGD exam. We’ve woven in quotes from Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a top Houston gastroenterologist. Let’s get started!
An upper endoscopy—also called EGD—uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to view your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine (duodenum). It’s like sending a tiny, soft robot with a light into your body. The camera streams real-time video so your doctor can see inflammation, ulcers, tumors, or bleeding.
“An EGD gives us clear, high-resolution images,” says Dr. Bharat Pothuri. “It’s less invasive than surgery and provides quick answers for patients with upper GI symptoms.”
Knowing when you need an EGD procedure can help you get the right care at the right time. Here are common reasons doctors in Houston or beyond recommend upper endoscopy:
“When do you need an EGD procedure? If your gastroenterologist suspects something serious—like Barrett’s esophagus or a bleeding ulcer—an upper endoscopy is often the fastest way to diagnose and treat the issue,” notes Dr. Pothuri.
Understanding how an endoscopy works step by step can ease your nerves. Here’s the typical flow at a Houston outpatient center or hospital:
You meet your gastroenterologist. You discuss symptoms, medical history, and medications.
Many people ask, what does an upper endoscopy (EGD) diagnose? Here’s a breakdown:
“An EGD is a powerhouse diagnostic tool,” says Dr. Pothuri. “It not only shows us problems but lets us take tissue samples to confirm a diagnosis under the microscope.”
“When you walk into our Houston clinic, you’ll feel safe and informed,” Dr. Pothuri assures. “Our team explains each step.”
| Procedure | Visualizes | Sedation | Biopsy Capability | Prep Needed |
| 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 | None | No | 8-hour fast |
This table helps you see why doctors choose an EGD when they need direct access to the upper GI tract.
An upper endoscopy (EGD) is your gateway to clear, direct images of the upper digestive tract. It’s safe, quick, and highly accurate. If you live in Houston or anywhere in Texas, the team at Gastrodoxs.com and our partner clinics stands ready to guide you through every step.
For more on digestive health, visit the Mayo Clinic on upper endoscopy and the National Institutes of Health for procedure guidelines.
Ready to schedule your EGD? Contact your Houston gastroenterologist today and see “pictures from the other side” for yourself!
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 procedure itself usually lasts 5–20 minutes. Factor in recovery time, and plan for 1–2 hours at the clinic.
No. You receive sedatives and throat numbing. Most patients remember little or nothing.
No. Sedation impairs reaction time. You must have a friend or family member drive you.
EGD is very safe. Rare risks include bleeding at biopsy sites or perforation (tear), under 1%.
Solid foods, dairy, and beverages other than water. Only clear liquids two hours before.
Most EGDs use conscious sedation (you’re relaxed but responsive). In rare cases, general anesthesia may be used.
Many people return to work within 24 hours, depending on their job and how they feel.
Very. It finds even small lesions and allows biopsies to confirm the diagnosis.
You may have mild throat soreness. Follow your doctor’s instructions for diet and medications.
Most plans cover EGD when medically necessary. Check with your provider for details.
