Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

What is an upper endoscopy or EGD?

An upper endoscopy or EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is a procedure where a flexible fiber optic camera with a light on the end (an endoscope) is advanced through mouth into the esophagus (swallowing tube) to the stomach and then the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).

Patients undergoing an EGD are sedated so they do not feel anything during the procedure.

During an endoscopy procedure, a careful examination of the esophagus, stomach and the first part of the duodenum are performed.  The endoscope also has a channel through which instruments can be advanced to take biopsies (samples of the inner lining of the digestive tract) or to treat various conditions and diseases.

When Should I Get an EGD in Fort Worth, TX area?

EGDs are performed both for the evaluation of symptoms and the treatment of various conditions and diseases.  Unlike a screening colonoscopy, upper endoscopy procedures are not routinely done for the purposes of screening (evaluation of a patient without symptoms or disease) in the U.S.

A thorough discussion and evaluation of your symptoms with a Gastroenterologist will help determine if an EGD should be the next step in your care. Symptoms that generally warrant evaluation by an EGD include (but are not limited to):

• abdominal pain
• heartburn
• reflux
• painful or difficulty swallowing
• nausea
• vomiting
• chest pain (that is not felt to be heart related)
• blood in the stool and unexplained weight loss.

For example, acid reflux is a risk factor for development of a condition called Barrett’s esophagus.  According to the National Institute of Health, barrett’s is a risk factor for developing a certain type of esophageal cancer called adenocarcinoma.  Barrett’s is not only diagnosed with an EGD but can be treated with a technique called ablation that is performed with an EGD.

Celiac Sprue is a digestive disease that can present in a variety of ways (with both digestive and non-digestive symptoms).  The Celiace Disease Foundation notes that Celiac Sprue involves sensitivity to a protein composite in wheat, barley and rye called gluten.  The gold standard for the diagnosis of Celiac Sprue is an EGD with biopsies taken from the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).

How Much Does an EGD Cost in Fort Worth, TX area?

The cost of an EGD varies based on insurance plans and individual insurance policies.

Our experienced office staff will provide you with a clear and concise picture of all costs prior to your EGD.

Furthermore, the vast majority of our EGDs are performed at Central Park Endoscopy Center in Bedford.  We maximize value for our patients by performing their EGD in this high quality, low cost endoscopy center.