ÖsophagoGastroDuodenoskopie

ÖsophagoGastro... refers to the esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), a diagnostic and sometimes therapeutic procedure that uses a flexible endoscope to examine the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract—the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Performed by gastroenterologists or trained surgeons, the procedure provides direct visualization, enabling assessment of symptoms such as persistent upper abdominal pain, dysphagia, reflux, bleeding, or anemia, and allows targeted biopsies when needed.

During the procedure, the patient is usually asked to fast beforehand. The throat may be numbed with a local anesthetic spray, and sedation or general anesthesia is often used to improve comfort. A lubricated, flexible endoscope is inserted through the mouth and guided into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The camera transmits images to a monitor, and the physician may insufflate air to improve visibility. In addition to visualization, the endoscope can be used to obtain tissue biopsies, remove polyps, dilate narrowed areas, treat bleeding, or perform other therapeutic interventions in a single session.

Preparation generally includes fasting for several hours and informed consent. After the procedure, patients are monitored as the effects of anesthesia wear off. Common short-term effects include a sore throat and mild bloating; most people resume normal activities within a day. Risks are uncommon but can include sore throat, bleeding, infection, perforation, and adverse reactions to sedatives.

EGD has a broad range of indications and can provide diagnostic clarity when noninvasive tests are inconclusive. It remains a cornerstone in managing upper gastrointestinal diseases, with ongoing refinements in imaging and endoscopic therapies.