Upper Endoscopy (EGD) in New Orleans, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat Is an upper endoscopy (EGD?
An upper endoscopy or esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is an endoscopic exam where a lengthy, narrow, flexible tube, or “scope,” is put into the mouth and advanced to the duodenum (the beginning of the small intestine). The scope has a camera and light at the end, which helps our GI specialists at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates effortlessly examine the lining of the esophagus, belly, and the beginning of the small intestine.
An esophagogastroduodenoscopy may be used to discover the cause of GI issues, such as pain in the abdomen, heartburn or reflux, difficulty swallowing, bleeding, or atypical x-ray results. We may also perform an EGD for New Orleans, LA patients with persistent heartburn to screen for changes that are associated with esophageal cancer. If you need an upper endoscopy, request an appointment with a GI specialist at a Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates near you.
What are the benefits of an EGD?
Having an esophagogastroduodenoscopy is beneficial for a number of reasons. It can allow your GI physician to directly visualize the inner lining of your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (or the first part of the small intestine). Other benefits of an esophagogastroduodenoscopy include:
- Helps in detecting multiple digestive conditions (including gastrointestinal infections, Crohn's disease, GERD, celiac disease, and more)
- Allows for the removal of polyps, tissue biopsies, and other small procedures
- Can help discern the causes of certain symptoms, like heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and pain
- Typically is an efficient, safe, and quick process
What should I expect the day prior to my EGD?
You will receive instructions from your gastrointestinal specialist on the preparations required for an EGD. Many of our patients will be able to eat normally during the day leading up to the exam. Our GI specialists may request you not eat or drink past midnight other than taking medications. It is crucial to follow the instructions given by your Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates provider. We will also provide more instructions about your medications. In most cases, you don’t need to make any changes to your medication regimen. However, there are certain situations where we will provide specialized instructions, particularly for those taking blood thinners (i.e., Coumadin®, warfarin, Plavix®, aspirin, anti-inflammatories) or for those who are diabetic.
What happens on the day of my upper endoscopy?
We will ask you to arrive 1 – 1.5 hours before your procedure. You will need to replace your clothes with a hospital gown. An IV will be started in your arm or another area so we can begin the sedation process. You will be connected to special equipment that helps your provider track your heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vitals throughout your exam.
After settling into one of our comfortable exam rooms, we’ll have you lie on your left side on our exam table. IV sedation will be started. From there, we’ll gently insert the endoscope into your mouth. The scope will be carefully moved through the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Injecting a small amount of air through the scope into the GI tract will help us see better. Any fluid left over in the upper gastrointestinal tract will be cleared away through the endoscope. Depending on the findings of your exam, several things can be done, such as the removal of polyps, biopsies, and the control of bleeding. You can expect the exam to take about 10 – 20 minutes. Following the exam, you will be taken to one of our private recovery rooms so we can monitor you while the sedation begins to wear off.
When will I get my results?
Once your exam is complete, our GI specialist will go over the outcome of your procedure with you. Many patients won’t remember this conversation after the exam because of the sedation. It is recommended you bring someone with you with whom the results can also be discussed. We can also give you a typed report. In most cases, you will be informed of any biopsy results in about a week.
Does an upper endoscopy carry any risks?
In general, an EGD is a very safe procedure. Overall, complications arise in about 1% of cases. Most complications are not life or death; however, if an issue arises, it may result in hospitalization and surgery. Before the exam, a consent form will be reviewed with you by the nursing staff. If you have any questions or concerns, you can discuss these with your GI specialist before your procedure.
Like other tests, an upper endoscopy is not perfect. There is a small, accepted possibility that abnormalities, such as cancers, may be missed during your EGD. It’s paramount to continue regular visits with your GI specialist and inform them of any new or constant issues.
What are alternate options to an EGD?
To a certain extent, the alternatives to the EGD will depend on the reason for requesting an upper endoscopy in the first place. Generally, an EGD is the standard treatment to test for and take care of any suspicious findings in the upper GI tract. However, an upper GI/barium swallow, a special type of x-ray, can check your upper GI tract too. This is, keep in mind, just a diagnostic exam. The treatment of any abnormalities may involve an EGD or surgery.
Take control of your symptoms with an upper endoscopy
If you or your child has been complaining of unpleasant GI issues, including consistent heartburn, complications swallowing, or abdominal discomfort, you could benefit from a diagnostic EGD exam. You can find a GI specialist who is capable of performing an upper endoscopy in New Orleans, LA by contacting your nearest location. Get in touch with your local Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates at your earliest convenience to request a consultation.
EGD FAQs
Does EGD mean the same thing as upper endoscopy?
You may hear an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) referred to by a few different names. In some cases, it may be referenced as a "gastroscopy" or an "upper endoscopy." While these names may be different, they are generally the same procedure as an esophagogastroduodenoscopy.
What is considered a "normal" result for an EGD?
Results that are "normal" for an EGD test generally indicate that your physician did not find abnormalities in the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract. However, normal results might be represented by a normal color and smooth texture of the tissue in your esophageal, stomach, and duodenal areas. In addition, there shouldn't be any indications of growths, bleeding, or inflammation in these areas. It's essential to remember that a "normal" result doesn't always rule out all health conditions. Some conditions might not be visible with an EGD or may be present in another area of the gastrointestinal tract, beyond the field of the endoscope used to perform the examination.
For what reasons might an EGD be recommended?
Your Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates doctor may recommend an EGD test if you have liver cirrhosis or Crohn's disease to help keep track of such medical concerns. In addition, an esophagogastroduodenoscopy might be recommended if you are experiencing:
- Tarry or black stool
- Vomiting of blood
- Heartburn
- Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen
- Trouble swallowing
- Unintentional loss of weight
- Frequent nausea
What should I bring to my EGD procedure?
When you arrive for your EGD procedure, you might need to complete a few patient forms. As such, it is important to bring your identification and insurance card with you to your appointment. It also might be a good idea to carry a list of medications you might take, the dosages, and the reason for taking them. We suggest that you leave valuables like jewelry at home.
Reviews
Dr Marino performed my EGD and Colonoscopy. He was awesome.
Dr Staudinger did really well in completing my EGD and my recovery.
Dr. Krishnan is definitely a GI doctor that I highly recommend! I recently had to get an EGD and was pleasantly surprised at how quickly the whole process went down! He did a great job of explaining it all in layman’s terms too so I felt very comfortable. I definitely felt like I was in great hands! His entire staff was also very pleasant! Thanks Dr. Krishnan for putting my worries to rest!
MGA Endoscopy Staff was very nice & professional. From the time I checked in I was greeted with a smile. The Front desk staff was very nice. My admit & recovery Nurses were very professional & took their time checking me in. The entire staff within the procedure room including(Dr. Lemann, the Endoscopy Tech & Float along with the CRNA) were all nice & professional. The entire staff showed that they cared about my health & safety while in their care. Dr. Lemann is such a beautiful person & very knowledgeable about the work that she does. I highly recommend Dr. Lemann to anyone that’s looking into having a Colonoscopy or EGD done. You will not be disappointed. May Dr. Lemann & the entire Staff continue to keep up the good work.
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