EGD (Upper Endoscopy)

EGD / EGD with Bravo / EDG with Dilitation

An esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD, also known as an upper endoscopy, upper GI endoscopy or panendoscopy) is a procedure that enables your physician to examine the lining of the upper part of your gastrointestinal tract, which is the esophagus (swallowing tube), stomach and duodenum (the first portion of the small intestine). This is done by using a thin flexible tube with its own lens and light source.

 

What to Expect

Your doctor will review with you why upper endoscopy is being performed, whether any alternative tests are available and possible complications from the procedure. You will be given medication through a vein to help you relax during the test. While you are in a comfortable position on your side, the endoscope is passed through the mouth, esophagus, stomach and duodenum. The endoscope does not interfere with your breathing during the test and you will be asleep during the procedure.

 

Applicable Conditions

 

Click Here to View EGD Prep Instructions

 

What Is An Upper Endoscopy?

Upper Endoscopy (also known as an upper GI endoscopy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy [EGD] or panendoscopy) is a procedure that enables your physician to examine the lining of the upper part of your gastrointestinal tract, i.e., the esophagus (swallowing tube), stomach, and duodenum (first portion of the small intestine). This is done by using a thin flexible tube with its own lens and light source.

 

Why Is Upper Endoscopy Done?

Upper endoscopy is usually performed to evaluate symptoms of persistent upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing. It is also the best test for finding the cause of bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Upper endoscopy is more accurate than x-ray films for detecting inflammation, ulcers or tumors of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. Upper endoscopy can detect early cancer and can distinguish between benign and malignant (cancerous) conditions when biopsies (small tissue samples) of suspicious areas are obtained. Biopsies are taken for many reasons and do not necessarily mean that cancer is suspected. A cytology test (introduction of a small brush) to collect cells may also be performed.

 

What Preparation Is Required?

For the best (and safest) examination, the stomach must be completely empty. You should have nothing to eat or drink, including water, after midnight the night before your procedure. Your doctor will be more specific about the time to begin fasting, depending on the time of day that your test is scheduled.

It is best to inform your doctor of your current medications as well as any allergies.

 

Why do I need arrangements to get home after the test?

You will need to arrange to have someone to accompany you home from the examination because sedatives may affect your judgement and reflexes for the rest of the day. If you received sedation, you will not be allowed to drive after the procedure even though you may not feel tired.

 

What can be expected during the upper endoscopy?

Your doctor will review with you why upper endoscopy is being performed, whether any alternative tests are available and possible complications from the procedure. You will be given medication through a vein to help you relax during the test. While you are in a comfortable position on your side, the endoscope is passed through the mouth and then in turn through the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. The endoscope does not interfere with your breathing during the test and you will be asleep during the procedure.

 

What happens after upper endoscopy?

After the test, you will be monitored in the endoscopy area until most of the effects of the medication have worn off. Your throat may be a little sore for a while, and you may feel bloated right after the procedure because of the air introduced into your stomach during the test. You will be able to resume your diet after you leave the procedure area unless you are instructed otherwise.

In most circumstances, your doctor can inform you of your test results on the day of the procedure; however, the results of biopsies or cytology samples taken will take several days.

 

What are the possible complications of upper endoscopy?

Endoscopy is generally safe. Complications can occur, but are rare when the test is performed by physicians with specialized training and experience in this procedure. Bleeding may occur from a biopsy site or where a polyp was removed. It is usually minimal and rarely requires blood transfusions or surgery. Localized irritation of the vein where medication was injected may rarely cause a tender lump lasting for several weeks, but this will go away eventually. Applying heat packs or hot moist towels may help relieve discomfort. Major complications, such as perforations (a tear in the lining of the GI tract that might require surgery for repair), are very uncommon.

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What They Are Saying

Mary S.
Dr.Willie and his staff are wonderful. My procedure went.well. All my questions were addressed. I felt very comfortable in the procedure room.
Dave A.
Great staff and location
Audrey B.
The office staff and clinical staff were all very friendly, Doctor was friendly. The check-in process was professional and efficient. Communication about the prep involved with a colonoscopy was great- I did not feel confused on what to do or when to start because instructions were clear and presented in advance.
Jeff H.
No one looks forward to a colonoscopy but the staff and doctors did a great job making the procedure as easy as possible. Everyone was caring and compassionate and concerned about my wellbeing.
Jeffrey S.
The staff was very nice and professional, I was really impressed with how comfortable and knowledgeable they were.
Linda A.
Enjoyed how quick the process went. Very professional.
Lee M.
Professional, compassionate and workers had great attitudes
Kathryn K.
Staff explained all information provided and made sure that I understood what was provided to me.
George T.
Very professional and very caring of their patients wellbeing, during and after the procedure.
Linda B.
Nice staff and very professional.
Neil H.
Our whole family have been patients of the Center for many years and have enjoyed the service and attention we receive. The operation runs like a well-oiled machine and the doctors and nurses are extremely helpful in explaning our procedures and answering any questions we might have.
email S.
Great staff. My colitis is much better.
Cheryl O.
I do not usually take the time to leave a review, unless I receive exceptional service, either good or bad. Well my experience yesterday was praise worthy!! Check in was quick, I was treated wonderfully throughout! The facility is exceptionally clean and the entire staff is caring and professional!!
The J.
This was my first Colonoscopy. I experienced a first class experience start to finish. After walking me through and finishing the prep phase, I was greeted by staff the day of the procedure and finished within two hours. Thank you all again for this positive experience.
Susan J.
Everyone one was so kind.. try all made you feel like you were a part of their family.. everything went well and I was fine before I knew it.. thank you to everyone.. Susan 😉
Gerald L.
Dr. Willie was awesome. Professional and thorough and my procedure was done in 20 mins.
Kelly R.
I have seen many Gastro Dr's in my life, but Dr. Bolonga and his stafg have been the best so far. I feel like im finally getting some way over due answers to stomach problems I have had for ove half my life now. Thank you so much to Dr. Bolonga and staff for all your help sooo far. Kelly
Sharon S.
Best colonoscopy in town!
Jere R.
Professional. Took time to listen to my challenges. Highly recommend.
Michael C.
The doctors and nurses were very kind and very efficient. My procedure was done professionally and very easy for me. I would recommend Dr. Bologna and his staff for anyone with lnternal gastro needs or problems.
Richard F.
These people really have their act together. Everyone was very friendly and professional. I felt very comfortable being in their care.
Patti S.
My visit went smoothly, quickly and professionally. I urged you not to judge the office by the reception area which is greatly in need of a renovation. The remainder of the office is modern and professional.
LuCritia B.
Everyone from the time I checked in to the time I left was so helpful. Again thank you all so very much.
Renna G.
On schedule and Dr Wille always is caring and listening to me as a patient.
Martha S.
Great experience in having a colonoscopy (if that is possible!). Dr Qualich is great
Eric I.
The service provided before, during and after Colonoscopy is high quality.
Ron E.
No waiting and staff was very professional from front office to nurses and Dr Bakin especially
Thomas J.
Extremely pleased.
thomas B.
This a well oiled machine. They processes you quickly and get you in and out in a timely manner.

Our Doctors

We’re proud of our team here at Digestive Health Institute. Our health care providers include some of the very best colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists and physician assistants. To learn more about our qualified team of specialists, please visit our providers page.

Anezi E. Bakken MD, MS

Sante D. Bologna MD, FACP

M. Emin Donat MD, FRCPC

Partha S. Nandi

Jack Tocco DO

John R. Weber MD

Richard T. Wille MD

Tusar Desai MD

Aalia Saeed, MD

FAQs

What happens during my first visit?
If you are a new patient, you can expect to have a complete physical exam. You will also be asked detailed questions about your current problems and your past medical history, your current medications, allergies, your family history and other pertinent medical information. If you are taking medications, please bring a completed medical history form with you to your appointment. Once the physician has reviewed your medical information and completed the physical examination, a plan of care will be developed. You may need to be seen again in the office, be referred back to your family physician for follow-up care, or require additional testing. If additional tests are needed, we will assist you in scheduling these tests.
What if I need to schedule an endoscopic procedure?

An endoscopic procedure allows the physician to visualize a part of your gastrointestinal tract with a special instrument called an endoscope. If your family physician has ordered testing, you will be contacted by telephone by one of our staff members. If a physician orders testing and you are in the office, the procedure can generally be scheduled during the course of your visit. You will be given a date, time, and location for the test, as well as written instructions telling you how to prepare for the test. If you have any questions about the procedure, please feel free to ask one of our staff members or the physician.

How do I get test results?

We ask that you wait 10 to 14 days before contacting us for results. Often results come from several different sources. This information needs to be compiled and reviewed by your physician before you can be appropriately advised. 

What insurances do you accept?

We accept payment from most insurance companies including Medicare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Physicians Health Plan, Cofinity, Sparrow Professional Health Network, Medicaid, McLaren, Health Plus, and several others. Accepted insurances are subject to change at any time without notice.

If your insurance requires an authorization from your primary care physician, you may be asked to assist us in obtaining this authorization.

All patients are responsible for all copays and deductibles at the time of service.

If you have any questions regarding your benefits or insurance coverage, please contact our Billing Department at 248-844-9710.

What if I need to contact the doctor?

To contact your doctor during business hours please call our main number 248-844-9710. If you have an urgent need to speak with the doctor after hours, you will be rerouted to our after hours answering service, and your doctor will be paged. In the case of a medical emergency please proceed directly to the nearest hospital emergency room.

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