EGD (Upper Endoscopy)

An EGD (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy), also known as an Upper Endoscopy, is a procedure that allows Dr. Craig Chang to examine the lining of your upper digestive tract. This includes the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).

At Advanced Bariatric & Surgical Specialists, we use the EGD as a primary diagnostic tool to identify the root cause of digestive issues and to ensure the best possible outcomes for our bariatric and reflux surgery patients.

Why Do I Need an EGD?

Dr. Chang may recommend an EGD to investigate symptoms or monitor existing conditions, including:

• Chronic Heartburn & Acid Reflux: To check for damage to the esophagus or the presence of a hiatal hernia.
• Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): To identify narrowings (strictures) or obstructions.
• Abdominal Pain: To look for ulcers, inflammation (gastritis), or tumors.
• Pre-Bariatric Evaluation: To ensure the stomach is healthy before procedures like the Gastric Sleeve or Bypass.
• Post-Surgical Follow-up: To evaluate the health of a surgical “wrap” or bariatric pouch if symptoms arise.
• Anemia or Internal Bleeding: To locate the source of blood loss in the upper GI tract.

What to Expect During the Procedure

The EGD is a safe, routine outpatient procedure that typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes.

1. Preparation: You will be asked to fast (no food or drink) for several hours prior to the procedure to ensure a clear view of the stomach.
2. Sedation: To ensure your comfort, the procedure is performed under “twilight sedation” or monitored anesthesia. You will not feel any discomfort.
3. The Endoscope: Dr. Chang inserts a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope through the mouth. The scope is equipped with a high-definition camera and a light, which transmits images to a monitor in the procedure room.
4. Biopsy or Treatment: If necessary, Dr. Chang can pass small instruments through the scope to take tissue samples (biopsies), remove polyps, or dilate narrow areas—all without any incisions.

Recovery and Results

Because the EGD is minimally invasive, recovery is very swift:

• Immediate Recovery: You will stay in a recovery area for about 30–60 minutes as the sedation wears off.
• Going Home: You will need a designated driver to take you home. Most patients can eat a light meal immediately after the procedure.
• Follow-up: Dr. Chang will often share the initial visual findings with you before you leave. Formal biopsy results typically take a few days.

The Importance of Precision Diagnosis

An EGD provides a level of detail that X-rays and CT scans cannot match. By seeing the tissue directly, Dr. Chang can identify conditions like Barrett’s Esophagus or early-stage ulcers that might otherwise go unnoticed. This precision allows us to create a highly personalized treatment plan, whether that involves lifestyle changes, medication, or a procedure like TIF or Nissen Fundoplication.

Schedule Your Evaluation

If you are suffering from persistent digestive symptoms or are preparing for weight-loss surgery, an EGD is a critical step toward a solution. Contact our Victoria or Corpus Christi office to schedule your consultation.