EGD (Esophagoscopy) in Flagstaff
EGD is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure allowing direct visualization of your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. At Flagstaff Surgical Associates, our surgeons perform EGD to diagnose and treat gastroesophageal disorders, gastrointestinal bleeding, and other upper GI conditions.
What is EGD?
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) uses a thin, flexible scope with a camera to visualize your upper GI tract. It’s performed under conscious sedation, allowing you to sleep through the procedure while our surgeon examines your esophagus, stomach, and first part of small intestine.
Diagnostic Uses: Evaluate persistent reflux, difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, weight loss, or suspected ulcers. Biopsies can be obtained if abnormalities are seen.
Therapeutic Uses: Remove foreign objects, treat bleeding ulcers with cautery or injection, remove polyps, dilate strictures, place feeding tubes.
Preparation & Recovery
Fasting required 8 hours before procedure. Sedation is administered so you won’t remember the procedure. After EGD, throat may be slightly sore for 24 hours. Most patients can return to normal activities the next day.
Results and any findings are discussed after you fully awaken. If biopsies were obtained, results return within 5-7 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions – EGD
Is EGD painful?
No. Conscious sedation ensures you don’t experience pain during the procedure. Your throat may feel slightly sore afterward but this resolves quickly. Most patients report pleasant sedation experience and minimal discomfort.
How long does EGD take?
Procedure usually takes 5-15 minutes depending on what’s found and treated. You’ll spend additional time in recovery (30-60 minutes) allowing sedation to wear off. Total time in facility: 1-2 hours.
Can EGD find cancer?
Yes. EGD can visualize suspicious lesions and obtain biopsies to diagnose cancer. If cancer is suspected, your surgeon will take biopsies for pathologic analysis. Early detection of cancer improves treatment outcomes significantly.
What are risks of EGD?
Serious complications are rare (less than 1%). Possible risks include bleeding (especially after biopsy or polyp removal), perforation, and sedation reactions. Our team is trained to manage complications immediately.
Can I eat after EGD?
You can eat 2-4 hours after procedure once throat numbness wears off. Start with soft foods. Avoid alcohol and driving for 24 hours due to sedation. Your physician will provide specific dietary instructions.
When will I get biopsy results?
Biopsies are sent to pathology for analysis. Results typically return in 5-7 business days. Your surgeon will contact you with results and discuss any treatment needed based on findings.
Will I need repeated EGD?
Some conditions require repeat EGD (ulcer surveillance, polyp surveillance, stricture dilation). Your surgeon will recommend follow-up schedule based on findings. Some patients never need repeat EGD after one normal procedure.