Gastroscopy

What is a gastroscopy?

Gastroscopy, or EGD (Esophago-gastro-duodenoscopy; also known as “endoscopy”) is a short and safe in-office test that enables me to visualize your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).  This stom6imageshelps me determine what is causing your gastrointestinal symptoms. A gastroscopy can detect the presence of reflux esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus (a potentially pre-malignant condition), gastritis, ulcers, celiac sprue, and Helicobacter Pylori infection.

How to prepare for your gastroscopy

You cannot eat or drink for at least 8 hours before the procedure. However, you should take your blood pressure and other required medications with a small amount of water.

What to expect

The procedure is performed in my office. Unless you are the very first patient of the day, please call my office before leaving your home in order to verify that we are running on schedule.

The nurse will admit you. Women of childbearing age must give us a urine sample. The anesthesiologist will place an IV in your arm to administer anesthesia.

You will be asleep for the duration of the procedure. The procedure itself should take about 5-10 minutes.

Afterwards, we will monitor you for about 15 minutes in the recovery room. You should be able to work the next day.

You should anticipate spending a total of 45 minutes from the time you are admitted.

Important: You must have someone pick you up. You cannot drive for the rest of the day.