Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

What is an Upper Endoscopy?

A thin flexible tube with a camera is inserted in the mouth to see the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine while the child is under general anesthesia, usually as an outpatient. The test is used to diagnose eosinophilic esophagitis, gastroesophageal reflux, celiac disease, peptic ulcer disease, gastric infections and inflammatory bowel disease. It is also used to look for causes of poor growth, and regurgitation. Small pieces of tissue, about the size of a pinhead, are usually taken for testing under the microscope. Through this approach, the doctor is able to actually see inside the GI tract to determine possible problem areas.

Reasons why children may need an Upper Endoscopy?

Difficulty swallowing
Nausea/Vomiting
Weight loss
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Persistent heartburn

What happens before and after the test?

The morning of the procedure, the child should not eat or drink anything. After the test, your doctor may have pictures to show. At the same time, he or she can tell the family if there are any medicines the child should take. Once the child is drinking well, they can start eating again and go home.

After the test, if the child has any of these symptoms, call their doctor:

Abdominal pain for more than an hour
Throwing up several times — to make sure this is not a problem, have them drink small amounts of beverages like Sprite or ginger ale, and popsicles
Bleeding — spitting up small amounts of blood may be normal. However, if there is more than a spoonful or it lasts longer than 1 day, contact our office.
Persistent fevers
Sore throat — the child may have a sore throat for a day or two after the test. If this is really bad or does not go away contact our office.