Upper Endoscopy Specialist

Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates, P.A.

Gastroenterology & Hepatology located in Annapolis, MD, Kent Island, MD, Odenton, MD, Bowie, MD, Pasadena, MD & Greenbelt, MD

Symptoms affecting your esophagus, stomach, or duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) might require an internal examination using an endoscope for diagnosis and treatment. The experienced team at Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates, P.A. have superior skills in performing upper endoscopy, which they offer at their facilities in Annapolis, Stevensville, Odenton, Bowie, and Pasadena, Maryland. Call the office nearest you to find out more or book an appointment online today.

410-224-2116

Upper Endoscopy Q & A

What is an upper endoscopy?

An upper endoscopy is a procedure the team uses to look at the first part of your digestive tract. The technical name for this investigation is esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD).

An endoscope consists of a flexible piece of tubing that fits down your esophagus. On the end of the tube, there's a light and a tiny camera. As the endoscope travels toward and into your stomach and small intestine, it sends back detailed images of the tissues to a screen in the treatment room.

During an upper endoscopy, your provider can view your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum – the first part of your small intestine.

Why would I need an upper endoscopy?

Your gastroenterologist might recommend you undergo an upper endoscopy if you have symptoms such as:

Pain in your upper abdomen
Nausea and vomiting
Dysphagia (problems swallowing)

If other tests can't determine the cause of these symptoms, an upper endoscopy could provide the answers. This procedure can detect inflammation, ulcers, and tumors in your upper gastrointestinal tract that could be causing your symptoms.

The team at Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates also uses upper endoscopy to treat bleeding problems, stretch a narrow section of your esophagus, or remove polyps.

What happens when I have an upper endoscopy?

Upper endoscopy is usually an outpatient procedure. Most patients only require a sedative and a local anesthetic to numb their throat rather than general anesthesia.

You'll be awake but sleepy and relaxed as the endoscope passes down your esophagus. Your provider examines the tissues in detail and might take a tissue sample (biopsy) for analysis in the laboratory.

Biopsies can detect Helicobacter pylori bacterial infection, which is a common cause of stomach ulcers. They can also help diagnose upper GI cancers.

What happens after my upper endoscopy?

When the procedure is complete, you go to the recovery room for monitoring while your sedative wears off.

Your provider at Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates talks with you about the findings of the upper endoscopy and what the next steps are. If you had a biopsy, they contact you when the results come back from the lab.

For more information about upper endoscopy and how you could benefit from this procedure, call Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates, P.A. today or book an appointment online.

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