Upper Endoscopy

What is endoscopy?

An endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure performed to evaluate your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine called the duodenum. An endoscopy is also known as an EGD standing for the areas examined (esophago-gastro-duoden-oscopy) or an upper endoscopy.

What preparation is required for an endoscopy?

You will have dietary instructions given to you by your doctor, but most patients are told not to consume any solid food for 8 hours prior. Patients can have clear liquids such as water and Gatorade up to 2 hours prior to the procedure, and then have nothing by mouth within 2 hours of your test.

What happens during an endoscopy?

You will arrive at the endoscopy center and check-in. An intravenous line is placed through which an anesthesiologist administers gentle sedation. The patient is lying on their left side and will sleep comfortably without any discomfort. A flexible instrument called an endoscope is inserted through the mouth and passed through the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. The endoscope is a long, thin, flexible tube with a tiny light and camera at the end. It is about the width of your pinky finger. The camera sends video images to a monitor while it moves through your digestive system. The procedure takes about 15-20 minutes. Special instruments can be passed through the endoscope to take tissue samples and perform maneuvers when needed.

Will I be awake during my endoscopy?

At the start of your procedure, an anesthesiologist will give you an IV sedative which will allow you to sleep during your procedure. You will have no memory of your procedure or discomfort. It is not general anesthesia, as you will still be breathing on your own, and will wake up quickly after the procedure.

Can I go home after my procedure?

Yes, endoscopy is performed on an outpatient basis and you can go home shortly afterward. Immediately after your procedure, you’ll spend some time in a recovery area while the sedation wears off and you can eat immediately. The doctor will speak with you before you go home and go over the results. If any biopsies were taken, those will come back in 1-2 weeks. You’ll need to have someone escort you home, and you should plan to take it easy the rest of the day. You cannot drive a car on the day of the exam.

Where are these procedures performed?

Our physicians complete procedures at two state-of-the-art dedicated endoscopy centers listed below.

• • Carnegie Hill Endoscopy
  • The Endoscopy Center of New York