Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Our Services
An upper endoscopy is a safe, minimally invasive procedure that allows your gastroenterologist to examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine. The procedure provides real-time images that allow your physician to identify inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, growths, or other abnormalities. If necessary, tissue samples (biopsies) can be collected during the procedure for further evaluation.
Symptoms it helps evaluate
An upper endoscopy can help evaluate chronic heartburn, acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, upper abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, persistent indigestion, gastrointestinal bleeding, and anemia.
Conditions it can detect
The procedure can diagnose a wide range of digestive conditions, including GERD, Barrett's esophagus, stomach ulcers, gastritis, celiac disease, Crohn's disease affecting the upper digestive tract, esophageal strictures, hiatal hernias, gastrointestinal bleeding, disaccharide deficiencies and certain cancers.
What happens during the procedure
After sedation is administered, your physician gently guides the endoscope through the mouth and into the esophagus, stomach, and first portion of the small intestine. The camera transmits high-definition images to a monitor, allowing your gastroenterologist to carefully examine the digestive tract. If necessary, biopsies can be taken without causing pain.
Sedation and comfort
Most patients receive intravenous sedation to help them relax and remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Because of the sedation, most patients sleep and typically have little or no memory of the exam.
Fasting guidelines
Patients are generally instructed not to eat for eight hours before the procedure. Clear liquids are allowed up to 3 hours prior to the exam. An empty stomach allows your physician to clearly visualize the upper digestive tract and is essential for the safety of the anesethesia .
Medications and health history
Your provider will review your medications, allergies, and medical history before the procedure. Certain medications, including blood thinners or diabetes medications, may require temporary adjustments prior to your appointment.
Going home and the rest of your day
Sedation is used during an upper endoscopy, so you will need someone to take you home. Mild bloating, gas, or a sore throat may occur temporarily but usually resolve within a day. Most patients can resume normal activities the following day unless otherwise instructed.
When you will get results
Your gastroenterologist will discuss the initial findings with you after the procedure. If biopsies were taken, laboratory results are typically available within several days, and your provider will review the findings and any recommended next steps.
Upper endoscopy is considered a very safe procedure when performed by experienced gastroenterologists. Serious complications are uncommon but can include bleeding, infection, or perforation of the digestive tract. NYGA's experienced physicians take every precaution to ensure patient safety and comfort before, during, and after the procedure.
NYGA performs upper endoscopies at convenient outpatient endoscopy centers throughout New York City. Our modern facilities are equipped with advanced technology and staffed by experienced gastroenterologists dedicated to providing efficient, high-quality digestive care.
If you're experiencing persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, unexplained nausea, or other upper digestive symptoms, an upper endoscopy may provide the answers you need.
Schedule an appointment with NYGA today to meet with one of our gastroenterologists and determine whether an upper endoscopy is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an upper endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy is a procedure that allows a gastroenterologist to examine the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine using a thin, flexible camera.
What does an upper endoscopy show?
It can detect inflammation, ulcers, Barrett's esophagitis, celiac disease, gastrointestinal bleeding, tumors, polyps, strictures, and other abnormalities of the upper digestive tract.
How long does an upper endoscopy take?
The procedure itself usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, though patients should expect to spend additional time preparing and recovering from sedation.
Will I be asleep during an upper endoscopy?
Most patients receive intravenous sedation, and are usually asleep throughout the procedure. Many have little or no memory of the exam.
Is an upper endoscopy painful?
No. Because sedation is used, patients generally do not experience pain during the procedure. Some mild throat soreness or bloating may occur afterward.
How do I prepare for an upper endoscopy?
You'll typically need to avoid eating for eight hours before the procedure and follow any medication instructions provided by your physician.
What can I eat after an upper endoscopy?
Most patients can resume eating shortly after the sedation wears off unless your physician provides specific dietary instructions based on your findings.
How is an upper endoscopy different from a colonoscopy?
An upper endoscopy examines the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine through the mouth, while a colonoscopy evaluates the colon through the rectum.
What are the risks of an upper endoscopy?
Upper endoscopy is very safe. Serious complications are rare but may include bleeding, infection, or perforation.
What are the benefits of getting an upper endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy enables early diagnosis of digestive conditions, helps identify the cause of persistent symptoms, allows tissue biopsy when needed, and allows certain conditions to be treated during the same procedure.
When will I get my biopsy results?
If biopsies are taken, results are typically available within several 1-2 week. Your NYGA provider will review the findings and discuss any recommended treatment.