Services

Endoscopy Services

Esophogastroduedenoscopy/EGD

EGD is a valuable procedure for the diagnosis and treatment of the upper gastrointestinal tract. An EGD is an examination of the esophagus, stomach (gastro) and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine leaving the stomach) with a small flexible tube. The decision to perform this procedure is based upon the assessment of your medical condition. An EGD may be indicated for patients with any of the following:

  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Removal of esophageal obstructions
  • Gastro-esophageal reflux (GERD)· Persistent nausea and vomiting
  • Acute or chronic gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Chronic abdominal or epigastric pain
  • Follow-up examinations of Barrett’s Esophagus

Biopsies (small tissue samples) may be taken; biopsies also may be taken to check for bacteria/Helicobacter Pilori (this is called a Clotest). Polyps (growths of tissue) may be found and removed and sent for pathologic examination. You will be notified of the pathology report in approximately two weeks.

Scheduling an EGD
If you have any of the following, be sure to give this information when scheduling:

  • A bleeding disorder or taking Coumadin or blood thinner such as Plavix. Your primary physician needs to instruct you about these medications.
  • History of heart valve infection, endocarditis, artificial heart valve or heart disease.
  • If you have a pacemaker or an implanted defibrillator (bring your manufacturer’s card).
  • History of artificial joint replacement within the year.
  • Allergies to any medication, latex, or foods.
  • Diabetes – your physician needs to instruct you about your diabetic medication/insulin.
  • Take aspirin or iron tablets daily. (You must be off one week before the procedure.)

To schedule this procedure or if you have questions, call Mercy Medical Center – North Iowa at 641.422.7262 or 1.800.433.3883, extension 7262 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. After 5 p.m. call Mercy Family Health Line at 641.422.7777 or 1.800.468.0050.

Preparation
Do not eat or drink after midnight. You may take your usual pills with a sip of water up to two hours before your procedure. If you procedure is scheduled at 1 p.m. or after, you may have clear liquids until 7 a.m. Do not use antacids or insulin until after your procedure.

Be Accompanied By a Driver
Please bring a driver with you for any procedure that requires sedation. You will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the procedure. A sedated procedure will not be done if you do not have a driver.

It is preferable to bring a family member or close friend as your physician will want to talk to a relative or friend about your test following the examination. He or she may wait in the second floor surgery waiting room. You and your driver will receive a complete verbal explanation of the home care instructions, along with a written copy of the instruction sheet and other information the nurse determines would be helpful to your recovery. If you do not want your driver to receive the information, inform your nurse at admission.

What to Bring
Please bring your completed two-page patient health/history form. Be sure to complete the medication/dosage list. Please leave your jewelry at home.

What should you expect during the procedure?
You will be given medication through a vein in your hand to relax you and minimize discomfort. This is called conscious sedation. While you are lying on your left side, the gastroscopy will be passed through your mouth into the esophagus. The gastroscope then is passed into the stomach and small bowel. You may experience a gagging sensation at the beginning of the procedure and possible minor throat irritation for several hours afterward.

These procedures are safe and associated with very low risk when performed by a physician specifically trained and experienced in these examinations. One possible complication is perforation (tearing) of the wall of the upper intestinal tract; this may require surgery to repair. Bleeding may occur from a biopsy, polyp removal, or dilation; this is an uncommon complication. Other risks include infection, drug reaction and complications from unrelated diseases such as heart attack or stroke.

What happens after the EGD?
Generally, you will be able to leave with your relative or friend 30 to 60 minutes after your procedure. Because of the sedation, you should follow these home care instructions:

Activities Encouraged for the Next 24 Hours

  • Rest or quiet activity
  • Progress to your regular diet unless otherwise instructed
  • Have a responsible person sty with you or be readily available

Activities to Avoid for the Next 24 Hours

  • Drinking alcoholic beverages or taking sleeping pills
  • Driving a car or operating machinery
  • Making important or legal decisions
  • Returning to work or as instructed by your physician

For more information, call Mercy Endoscopy Services at 641.422.7394 or Dr. Sondhi’s office at 641.422.6783.