What Is an Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

An upper endoscopy, also called esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) or gastroscopy, is a procedure in which a flexible, lighted tube with a camera is passed through the mouth to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). It allows doctors to diagnose and treat many upper gastrointestinal conditions, often providing more detailed information than X-rays or other imaging tests.

Our experienced endoscopy team performs thousands of EGDs each year with a focus on patient comfort and safety.

Why an Upper Endoscopy Is Performed

  • Persistent heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Upper abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting
  • Unexplained anemia or gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Screening and surveillance for conditions like Barrett’s esophagus
  • Evaluation of motility issues or hiatal hernia
  • Foreign body removal or dilation of strictures (narrowed areas)

How to Prepare

To ensure safety and accuracy, the stomach must be empty during the procedure:

  • Do not eat or drink anything for 6–12 hours before your procedure.
  • You may be asked to stop aspirin or other blood-thinning medications for several days prior.
  • Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home — sedation will make it unsafe to drive afterward.
  • Your physician will review your medications and provide specific instructions.

What to Expect During the Procedure

  • An IV will be inserted into your arm for sedation and any needed medications.
  • A local anesthetic spray may be used in your throat to reduce the gag reflex.
  • A mouth guard will protect your teeth and the endoscope (dentures must be removed).
  • You’ll lie on your left side while the doctor gently guides the endoscope through your mouth into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
  • Air is introduced through the scope to expand the area for better viewing.
  • The physician may take tissue samples (biopsies), remove polyps, or treat bleeding areas. These steps are painless and not felt during the procedure.

The exam typically takes 10–20 minutes. Because of the sedation, you may not remember the procedure and will rest briefly afterward before discharge.

After the Procedure

  • You may have a mild sore throat or bloating for a few hours.
  • Food and liquids will be restricted until your gag reflex fully returns.
  • Most patients resume normal activities the same day.
  • Your physician will discuss any findings and review biopsy results when available.

What an Upper Endoscopy Can Detect

  • Causes of heartburn or reflux
  • Hiatal hernias
  • Ulcers or gastritis
  • Swallowing difficulties or strictures
  • Upper GI bleeding
  • Tumors or abnormal tissue

Risks and Possible Complications

Upper endoscopy is considered a low-risk procedure, but as with any medical test, complications can occur:

  • Perforation: Rarely, the GI tract wall may be injured, which could require hospitalization or surgery.
  • Bleeding: Minor bleeding can occur after biopsy or polyp removal; significant bleeding is uncommon.
  • Infection: Entry of stomach contents into the lungs (aspiration) or rare infections of the heart valve may occur.
  • Missed lesions: Polyps or tumors may occasionally be overlooked.
  • Drug reactions: Sedation medications may cause nausea, dizziness, rash, breathing changes, or — extremely rarely — cardiac complications.
  • Other risks: Pre-existing medical conditions may increase risk. Instrument malfunction and death are extremely rare but possible.

Important: Always inform your physician of all medications, allergies, and medical conditions before your procedure.

If you have symptoms that may require an upper endoscopy, our specialists at Salem Gastroenterology Consultants provide expert, compassionate care to help diagnose and treat your condition safely and effectively.