Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

During an upper endoscopy Dr. Sing Chan puts a fiber-optic tube (the size of a metal point pen) with light and camera attached, passing through the mouth into the food pipe (esophagus), stomach, and the duodenum (the beginning of the intestine). It allows the doctor to examine the lining of these structures and take a biopsy if any abnormalities are found. Treatment of some abnormalities can be performed at the same time if appropriate. You will be sedated by a licensed physician or anesthesiologist. Almost everyone of Dr. Chan’s patients has found this to be easier than anticipated. A common reaction has been, “You did it already?” (Note: you need to be NPO – having swallowed nothing by mouth for 6 to 8 hours prior to the procedure.)

This procedure can be performed in the convenience of Dr. Chan’s office.

Diagnostic EGD is generally indicated for evaluating:

• Upper abdominal complaints that persist after a trial of therapy.
• Upper abdominal complaints that may suggest serious organic disease (e.g. weight loss, loss of appetite).
• Difficulty or pain in swallowing.
• Esophageal reflux symptoms persist, despite therapy, or if the symptoms recur.
• Persistent vomiting of unknown cause.
• Familial adenomatous polyposis.
• Suspected upper gastrointestinal bleeding, i.e., black stool in patients with upper abdominal complaints.
• Cirrhotic patients to evaluate for esophageal varices.
• Acute injury after caustic ingestion.
• Barrium upper GI series demonstrating suspected cancer, ulcers, strictures, obstructions.

Periodic Diagnostic EGD May Be Indicated For:

• Patients requiring periodic surveillance of proven Barrett’s esophagus; familial adenomatous polyposis.
• Follow-up of selected esophageal, gastric or stomach ulcers to demonstrate healing.
• patients with prior adenomatous stomach polyps.
• Follow-up of prior sclera-therapy or banding of esophageal varices.