Upper GI Endoscopy (EGD) in Indianapolis, IN
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Find a ProviderWhat is an upper GI endoscopy?
An upper GI endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)) is an endoscopic procedure. During the procedure, a thin tube or scope is inserted into the mouth and moved to the small intestine or duodenum. The scope has a camera and light at the end, allowing your GI providers at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology to treat the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and first portion of the small intestine easily.
This EGD procedure can be offered as a way to determine the reasoning for GI problems like pain in the abdomen, heartburn or reflux issues, trouble swallowing, bleeding, or abnormal x-rays. If you have chronic heartburn, this can also assist you. Learn more about this treatment by requesting consultation in our Indianapolis, IN location today.
What happens the day before an upper endoscopy?
Instructions are provided by our GI providers that will explain your required prep. This includes eating and drinking as normal until 12 am the day of the scheduled EGD. It is also requested that you not take any medications without informing your GI doctor so we can provide specific directions regarding those medications. If you’re diabetic or take blood thinners like Plavix®, Coumadin®, warfarin, anti-inflammatories, or aspirin be sure to check in with our team so you can receive specialized instructions regarding your medications.
What should I expect on the day of the procedure?
You should arrive an hour before your EGD procedure in our Indianapolis, IN location. Once checked in, you will change into a procedure gown. An IV will be started in your arm so the sedation process can begin. You will also get connected to equipment that monitors your heart rate, blood pressure, and more during the exam. This is to make sure you are steady during the procedure, and to help your Indianapolis, IN doctor understand how your body is reacting.
Once you enter your treatment room, you will lie on your left side on the stretcher and your sedation will begin. Once sedated, the endoscope is inserted into your mouth. The scope is then advanced through the esophagus, stomach, and first portion of the small intestine (duodenum). A tiny amount of air is sent through the scope into the GI tract to help our GI doctors see better. Any fluid remaining in the upper GI tract is removed through the endoscope. Several treatments can be implemented depending on the findings during the exam. This could mean controlling bleeding, removing polyps, and performing any biopsies needed. The whole procedure will generally take 10 - 20 minutes. You’ll be taken to one of our recovery rooms where you’ll be monitored until the sedation wears off.
When can I expect my exam results?
After your surgery, your results will be reviewed with one of our GI specialists in Indianapolis, IN. When you’re under sedation, it is likely that you won’t remember what you are told because of brain fog due to the sedation. When we go over the results, we recommend you bring a trusted family or friend during the time. We will also provide you with a typed report for you to review later. If you have a biopsy, you should receive your results in one week.
Are there any risks with an upper GI endoscopy?
EGD is generally a very safe procedure. Problems, when seen, develop in fewer than 1% of patients. Complications are not usually life and death situations, but you could require hospitalization and surgery. A consent form will be provided before the exam. You can have all of your questions and concerns addressed during this time.
The esophagogastroduodenoscopy test isn’t perfect, and there is always a small possibility of irregularities. It is possible that cancer can go unnoticed during the EGD. Maintaining visits with your doctor is ideal so you can keep them up to date on any recent or persistent problems.
What are the alternatives to an upper endoscopy?
The alternatives to an upper endoscopy will depend on the specific reason it was required. An upper GI endoscopy is the standard method when checking for abnormalities in the upper GI tract. An upper GI/barium swallow and a special type of x-ray can evaluate your upper GI tract as well. These scans are only diagnostic. Any treatments may involve further steps. Request a consultation with our GI team to ensure you are receiving the treatment that works well for you.
Treat your gut symptoms
If you or a family member are having troubling symptoms like frequent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, or intestinal aches, an upper GI endoscopy might be the proper treatment for you. Request an appointment with our team at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology in our Indianapolis, IN location for more.
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Dr Haynes is one of the most compassionate, intelligent drs I have ever had. I very highly recommend him! I have a rare medical condition and was thoroughly impressed at how knowledgeable he is in my care. He is friendly and easy to talk to about procedures and conditions. He is one of the few drs that I feel really cares about his patients.
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The only thing I can say. Thank God that you are my doctor and a servant of the Lord. I will aways be grateful for taking care of my health problem. May God continue to bless you.
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