When doctors check your stomach, the procedure is commonly known as an upper GI endoscopy or EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy). This medical procedure allows healthcare professionals to examine the lining of your upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
Understanding Upper GI Endoscopy (EGD)
An upper GI endoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure designed to identify and address problems within the upper part of your digestive system. It's a key method for directly visualizing the internal organs without surgery.
During an EGD, doctors examine three main areas:
- Esophagus: This is your food pipe, which connects your mouth to your stomach.
- Stomach: The primary organ responsible for digestion, located between the esophagus and the small intestine.
- Duodenum: This is the first segment of your small intestine, directly connected to the stomach.
Why is an EGD Performed?
Doctors perform an EGD to diagnose a variety of conditions and symptoms that may be affecting your upper GI tract. It's also used to treat certain issues found during the examination.
Common reasons for an EGD include:
- Investigating symptoms: Such as persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, unexplained abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or blood in stool.
- Diagnosing conditions: Identifying ulcers, inflammation (gastritis, esophagitis), celiac disease, strictures (narrowing of the esophagus), or tumors.
- Treating problems: Procedures like stopping bleeding, removing polyps, dilating narrow areas, or taking tissue samples (biopsies) can be performed during an EGD.
What to Expect During the Procedure
An upper GI endoscopy is typically an outpatient procedure. Patients usually receive a sedative to help them relax. A thin, flexible tube called an endoscope, equipped with a tiny camera and a light, is gently passed through the mouth, down the esophagus, into the stomach, and then into the duodenum. The camera transmits images to a video screen, allowing the doctor to meticulously examine the lining of these organs for any abnormalities.
Here's a quick overview of the procedure:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Diagnose and treat issues in the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. |
| Areas Checked | Esophagus (food pipe), Stomach, Duodenum (first part of small intestine). |
| Common Names | Upper GI Endoscopy, EGD, Esophagogastroduodenoscopy. |
| Method | Uses a flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) to view internal organs. |
| Patient Comfort | Sedation is typically administered to ensure comfort. |
For more detailed information on upper GI endoscopy, you can refer to resources from reputable health organizations such as Johns Hopkins Medicine: Upper GI Endoscopy
