EGD procedures are a way for patients suffering from a variety of problems with the digestive tract to get proper diagnoses to learn what next steps can be taken to improve their digestive health. Our gastroenterology doctors and PAs will perform the procedure to help you determine the source of symptoms to make informed decisions about how to improve digestion.
An esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is an exam of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract with a slim, flexible, lighted tube. The upper GI tract includes the throat, esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine (duodenum).
An endoscope is a flexible tube about half an inch in diameter and between 3 and 5 feet long. Fiber optics carry light down to illuminate the area being examined, and carry a clear image back to a TV monitor.
For examination of the upper GI, the patient is often sedated, and a topical anesthetic is sprayed on the back of the throat. The endoscope is then gently guided down the esophagus to the stomach wall. The stomach is then filled with just enough air to permit a survey of its interior. The endoscope may be passed through the pylorus and into the duodenum. Diagnostic and therapeutic procedures may be done, and photos may be taken during the investigation.
When you need your upper gastrointestinal tract examined, an esophagogastroduodenoscopy is your best choice for your digestive health. With all the different options available for you to choose from to check digestive health, our patients often have many questions about our procedures, including EGD. Learn more about what it can do to help you by seeing our answers to the common questions we receive below.
This procedure may be done to check for problems with your digestive tract including:
Problems swallowing, narrowing of tumors in the esophagus, repeated heartburn, gastrointestinal bleeding, chest pain, abdominal pain, vomiting, unexplained anemia or abnormal findings of gastrointestinal X-rays.
Do not make the mistake of asking your insurance company, “Is it covered?” Use these detailed questions to get accurate answers from your insurance company, regarding what they will pay and how much will be your responsibility.
1. How much is my deductible? Your deductible is the amount you have to pay the doctor before your coverage begins.
2. How much is my coinsurance? (Example: “80/20 Coinsurance” is the amount the insurance company pays (80%) and patient pays (20%) after your deductible has been met).
3. What is the allowable cost for CPT codes 43235-43259?
4. Do I have to use preferred facilities for procedures, x-rays, labs and hospital admissions?
5. Explain any potential costs from the facility, pathologists, anesthesiologists or other healthcare professionals.
Special Note: Increasingly, insurance policies have up to $5,000 deductibles. If your deductible is not met before a procedure, we may ask that you set up a payment plan before scheduling. This proactive approach lets you make informed decisions and avoid surprises.
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