Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a procedure that enables your doctor to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the upper gastrointestinal tract, including your esophagus, stomach and duodenum. It's performed using a long, flexible scope called an endoscope which is inserted through your mouth and throat, then on to the stomach and duodenum, a small “pouch” that connects your stomach to the small bowel. The tube features a lighted end and a tiny camera that allows your doctor to see inside your organs to look for abnormalities and diagnose problems. The tube can also be used to enable specially designed instruments to enter and collect tissue samples for examination under a microscope or to perform other minor procedures.
An EGD is usually prescribed to help diagnose or treat the following problems:
Prior to the procedure, you'll be given a sedative through an IV in your arm and numbing medication will be sprayed in your throat to coat it and prevent gagging when the instrument is inserted. During the procedure, the endoscope will be passed through your mouth and esophagus and into your stomach and the opening of the duodenum. Dr. Lai will take pictures and samples and perform minor procedures as needed. Once the exam is over, you'll be taken to recovery and monitored for a little while before being released. Since a sedative is used, you'll need to have someone drive you home.
Below is a short list of the insurance plans we accept. If you do not see your insurance on the list, feel free to call our office. We also offer very reasonable discounted packages for patients who do not have insurance coverage.