Upper Endoscopy & EGD in New York, NY
If you are in need of an upper GI endoscopy in New York City or the surrounding areas, considering contacting Gramercy Park Digestive Disease Center’s knowledgeable physicians today! Our practice will answer any questions you have regarding the procedure, examine your results, and help you make the right decision for your health. Call 212-979-3237 today for your personalized appointment.
Patient Testimonial:
“Wonderful experience, very clean! Doctors and nurses made me feel at ease and very comfortable.” – M.A.
What is an upper GI endoscopy (EGD)?
An upper endoscopy, also known as an EGD (short for esophagogastroduodenoscopy), is a procedure used to detect abnormalities in the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The procedure is performed using an endoscope, which is a long, thin tube that is flexible and has a camera at one end.
Why is an EGD performed?
An upper endoscopy is used to examine the lining of the throat (esophagus), the stomach, and the upper part of the small intestine (duodenum). It is commonly used to determine the underlying cause of certain gastrointestinal and swallowing-related symptoms.
Signs and symptoms that may warrant an EGD procedure include:
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Unexplained weight loss
- Difficulty swallowing
- Intestinal bleeding
- Persistent heartburn
- Anemia
An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy may also be performed to help identify certain diseases and medical conditions, such as:
- Celiac disease
- Ulcers
- Polyps
- Precancerous growths/tumors
- Inflammation
- Infections
- Abnormal narrowing of the throat
In addition to diagnostic purposes, an EGD may also be used for:
- Biopsy (obtaining a small piece of tissue for further testing)
- Treating ulcers or other conditions
- Removing food or other material that is interfering with normal swallowing
What are the advantages of an upper endoscopy?
An EGD offers several benefits, which include:
- A safe and accurate way to examine and detect abnormalities in the esophagus, stomach and duodenum
- Helps guide diagnosis for certain diseases and medical conditions
- Performed with sedation for patient comfort
- Provides more detailed results than x-ray
What does getting an upper endoscopy involve?
Before undergoing an EGD, your gastroenterologist will provide specific instructions about how to prepare in the hours leading up to your procedure. Many medications and vitamins may be discouraged the day before your procedure. Additionally, you should not eat or drink in the hours leading up to the procedure. You will also need to arrange for someone to escort you home from the procedure.
During an EGD, patients will be comfortably sedated so that you experience no discomfort throughout the procedure. Once sedated, your physician will insert the small endoscope through your mouth. The endoscope will not affect your normal breathing. An EGD typically takes 20 to 30 minutes to perform but may be longer in cases where a biopsy is needed. Following your procedure, you’ll be able to return home with the assistance of a patient escort.
Patient Testimonial:
“My experience was excellent. Fast, professional, and clean” – L.O.
Schedule An Upper GI Endoscopy Consult In NYC!
If you believe you may need an upper GI endoscopy (EGD), the first step is to consult with a skilled NYC gastroenterologist. Gramercy Park Digestive Disease Center (GPDDC) is home to top board-certified gastroenterology physicians, with extensive experience in digestive disease diagnosis and treatment. Call (212) 979-3237 or use the form on this page to learn more about our GI services and treatments.