Purpose of EGD Test
An EGD AT ROWLETT is used
to visualize the upper portion of the gastrointestinal tract for diagnostic
purposes. Using the test, your doctor will examine several regions of your
upper GI tract and take pictures, particularly of concerning areas or lesions.
During an EGD AT ROWLETT, your doctor may collect a sample of tissue
for a biopsy or treat small lesions of the gastrointestinal tract by performing
procedures such as tumor removal, banding (tying off) of enlarged or bleeding
blood vessels, and widening of strictures (narrowing)
The EGD AT ROWLETT is
actually a combination of three tests:
·
An
esophagoscopy views the inside of the esophagus.
·
A
gastroscopy views the inside of the stomach.
·
A
duodenoscopy views the inside of the duodenum, the first part of the small
intestine.
You may need to have an EGD
AT ROWLETT if you have symptoms involving your esophagus, stomach, or small
intestine.
During the Test
An EGD AT ROWLETT is usually performed by a
gastroenterologist, a physician specialized in treating diseases of the
gastrointestinal system. A nurse or a technician will assist with the
procedure.
Pre-Test
When you check in for the
test, you will be asked to fill out some forms, including a consent form,
authorization for payment, and a patient privacy form.
If you have them, dentures
or partial plates will be removed so the numbing medicine can reach all areas
of the mouth. Your throat will then be sprayed with the medicine, which will
have a numbing effect for about 30 to 45 minutes.
You will be given a
protective device to put into in your mouth to protect your teeth from the
endoscope and then be positioned so that you lie on your left side.
Throughout the Test
When you are properly
relaxed, you will be asked to swallow once or twice during the initial period
of insertion of the endoscope. The tube will not interfere with your ability to
breathe and is only mildly uncomfortable following the initial insertion.
The exam will take about 10
to 30 minutes. You may experience a feeling of fullness in
your abdomen as the doctor injects a moderate amount of air to expand
your stomach, allowing for better visualization. Pictures may be taken of the inside
of your digestive tract to monitor abnormalities and for treatment planning.
A biopsy may be
taken for examination. You will not feel any discomfort from this. If you are
having your EGD AT ROWLETT for treatment of a gastrointestinal condition,
electrosurgical instruments attached to the endoscope will be used.
Post-Test
If you received sedation,
you will need to recover and wait until you are awake and alert before being
discharged to home. You may not recall the procedure because of the effect of
the sedation.
After the Test
You should expect to feel
groggy for several hours after the test. You may have a slightly sore throat
after the procedure, which should for approximately 24 hours. It is best to
take it easy and avoid eating or drinking extremely hot or spicy foods and
drinks on the day of the test.
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