Esophago-gastro-duodenoscopy

Dr. med. Thomas Brunk Gastroenterology Berlin

What is an esophago-gastro-duodenoscopy?

An esophagogastroduodenoscopy, or EGDE for short, is an endoscopic examination of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. A thin, flexible tube with a camera and a light source is inserted into the digestive tract via the mouth. The images are displayed on a monitor and can be saved or printed out.

Why is an EGDE carried out?

An OGD is performed to detect or rule out diseases or changes in the oesophagus, stomach or duodenum. The possible diseases include:

  • Inflammations or ulcers
  • Polyps or tumors
  • Bleeding or injuries
  • Constrictions or malformations

A PED can also have therapeutic purposes, for example:

  • Hemostasis in case of bleeding
  • Removal of polyps or tumors
  • Dilation of constrictions
  • Removal of foreign bodies

How do I prepare for an EGDE?

You must be sober to allow a good view of the mucous membranes.

This means that you must not eat or drink anything for at least six hours before the examination. You should also discuss your medication with your doctor, as some of it may affect the examination.

For example, blood-thinning medication must be discontinued beforehand.

How does an EGDE work?

For the examination, you will be positioned on your left side and connected to a monitoring unit. This continuously measures pulse, blood pressure and oxygen saturation. You are then placed on your left side and a mouthpiece is inserted between your teeth. Before and during the examination, you will be given a sleeping pill in an appropriate dosage. You will therefore not notice anything of the examination itself. If you wish, the sleeping pill can also be dispensed with. In this case, you will be given an anesthetic spray for the throat. This should help you to relax and suppress the gag reflex. The endoscope is carefully inserted into the digestive tract via the mouthpiece. You can breathe and swallow normally during the examination. The examination usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

What are the risks of an EGDE?

An OGD is a safe and gentle examination that rarely leads to complications. Possible complications include

  • Irritation or injury to the throat or teeth
  • Bleeding or perforations in the digestive tract
  • Infections or allergic reactions
  • Side effects of the sedative

If you have pain, fever, blood in your stool or vomiting after the examination, you should contact your doctor immediately.

How do I behave after an EGDE?

After the examination, you will be monitored in a relaxation room until the effects of the sedative wear off. This can take up to an hour. Afterwards you can eat and drink again, but you should take it easy and avoid alcohol. As the sedative impairs your ability to react, you must not drive or operate machinery yourself. You should have someone accompany you home.

I need an EGDE, what happens now?

If you have any questions about the examination or would like to make an appointment, please contact our practice. We will be happy to advise you and provide you with further details.