EGD (Upper Endoscopy) in Florida
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Find a ProviderWhat is an upper endoscopy?
An esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a gastrointestinal treatment where a lengthy, slim, flexible tube, or “scope” as it is also known, is positioned into our patient’s mouth and advanced to the duodenum (the beginning of the small intestine). Our scope includes a light and camera on the end, which helps our physicians at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida to easily review the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and the start of the small intestine.
An esophagogastroduodenoscopy is implemented to determine the reason for GI symptoms, like abdominal pain, heartburn or acid reflux, complications with swallowing, bleeding, or unusual x-ray outcomes. An EGD may also be performed for Florida patients who have constant heartburn symptoms to look for changes that could be an indication of esophageal cancer. Should you need an EGD, please schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida.
What can I expect the day before my EGD?
You will receive pre-op instructions from your gastrointestinal provider explaining the essential preparatory steps for an EGD. Many of our Florida patients will be able to eat normally the day before the esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Our GI providers may request you not to eat or drink after midnight except for medications. It is crucial that you abide by the requirements requested from our office at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida. We will also provide extra instructions as it pertains to any medications you take. In most cases, you can take your medications as you normally would. In certain circumstances, this may not be the case, particularly if you take blood thinners (i.e., Plavix®, Coumadin®, warfarin, anti-inflammatories, aspirin) or if you have diabetes. If this pertains to you, we will give you special instructions.
What can I expect on the day of my EGD?
It’s advised that you show up at our Florida office at least an hour before your exam. You’ll need to change into a hospital gown. An intravenous (IV) catheter will be started in your arm so we can begin the sedation process. You will be connected to equipment that will allow your GI specialist to keep track of your heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and much more during and after your exam.
Once you’re in the exam room at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida, we’ll ask you to relax on your left side on our exam table. Sedation will be started. After you’re sedated, the endoscope will be inserted into your mouth. The scope will be strategically advanced through your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Injecting a small amount of air through the scope into the gastrointestinal tract will help us see better. Any fluid remaining in the upper gastrointestinal tract will be cleared away through the scope. Based on the results of the exam, a number of things could be implemented, including biopsies, the removal of polyps, and control of bleeding. Typically, the exam takes approximately 10 – 20 minutes. Following your exam, you will be taken to one of our comfortable recovery rooms to be monitored as the sedation wears off.
About when will I receive my results?
After your exam, our team will go over the findings of your procedure with you. Many patients don’t remember what they were told later on because of the effects of the sedation. It is recommended you bring a family member with you for a second pair of ears. We can also give you a typed-up review of what we discussed. In a number of situations, we’ll provide you with biopsy results in a week.
Does an EGD carry any risks?
In general, an EGD is a very safe procedure. Generally, difficulties arise in fewer than 1% of patients. Typically, these issues are not life or death; although if an issue arises, it could result in hospitalization and surgery. Before beginning your exam, a consent form will be reviewed with you by the nursing staff. Should any questions or concerns arise, you can discuss these with your physician before your treatment.
As with other tests, an EGD is not perfect. There is a small possibility that abnormalities, such as cancers, may not be discovered during the esophagogastroduodenoscopy. It is crucial to continue to follow up with our gastrointestinal doctors and keep them abreast of any recent or persistent issues.
What are alternatives to an EGD?
Generally, your substitutes for the esophagogastroduodenoscopy will hinge on the reason for requesting an esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Most often, an EGD at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida is the best treatment to evaluate and take care of abnormalities in the upper GI tract. However, an upper GI/barium swallow, a special type of x-ray, can assess the upper GI tract also. This is, keep in mind, just a diagnostic exam. Treating these abnormalities might require an esophagogastroduodenoscopy or surgery.
Relieve your GI symptoms with an EGD
If you or someone you know is experiencing troubling problems, such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and/or belly aches, you may gain insight from a diagnostic esophagogastroduodenoscopy. You can find an expert gastroenterologist who offers an EGD in Florida at our practice. Contact Gastroenterology Associates of Florida as soon as possible to request an EGD consultation.
Reviews
Dr. Ulteig was very informative upon my initial visit. I was . a little disappointed after my colonoscopy to hear I had Diverticulitis and wasn’t offered any information on how to manage it or how bad it was just “eat whatever diet you choose”. Not very helpful information.
My experience with this Doctor was amazing. She explained everything with me about the procedure.
My consult visit with Dr. Ulteig was very pleasant. The office staff is efficient and my wait was short.
Have had Dr Steinberg as my Gastroenterologist for years; great guy. Staff are always friendly and helpful. If there’s anything that needs work it’s their communication system, which I understand they are transitioning to a new system now. Very much recommend them!
Pleasant staff. Minimal wait time and Doctor was great.
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