EGD Procedure - Upper Endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy)

At The Institute for Digestive Health and Liver Disease at Mercy, a team of doctors offers endoscopy procedures to help diagnose and treat digestive disease. Among the top doctors in Baltimore for endoscopy procedures, the endoscopy specialists at Mercy are proud to offer a dedicated endoscopy suite where patients from across the Baltimore Metropolitan region can receive individualized care specific to their endoscopy needs.

What is an EGD Procedure? (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy)

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, also referred to as an EGD procedure or an upper endoscopy, is an endoscopy procedure that enables a direct examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. An outpatient procedure, an upper endoscopy takes approximately 30–60 minutes to perform and generally is tolerated with minimal discomfort.

How does an EGD Procedure work?

To perform an upper endoscopy, an endoscope is placed through the mouth and guided through the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The endoscope is a thin tube with a light and camera at its tip that can transmit images of the upper digestive tract. During an upper endoscopy, abnormal growths can be removed and tissue can be taken for biopsies.

When is an Esophagogastroduodenoscopy recommended?

An upper endoscopy is used to evaluate abdominal pain, heartburn, persistent nausea or vomiting, trouble swallowing, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, chest pain in the absence of heart disease, or bloody stools. An esophagogastroduodenoscopy also may be used for periodic screening, surveillance, or diagnosis of digestive diseases, such as eosinophilic esophagitis, esophageal cancer, GERD, dysphagia, neuroendocrine tumors, pancreatic cysts and peptic ulcers.