EGD

EGD

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (Or EGD) is a procedure that allows a gastroenterologist to view the inner lining of a patient’s esophagus or stomach. The procedure is performed using a thin, flexible tube (an endoscope) that is slowly guided through the esophagus. The end of the endoscope is lighted and includes a camera that transmits images onto a screen in the procedure room.

EGD Frequently Asked Questions

Q.  Where is the upper gastrointestinal tract and why is it important?
A.  The upper gastrointestinal tract begins with the mouth and continues with the esophagus (food tube) which carries food to the stomach.  The acid in the stomach churns food into small particles. The food particles then enter the duodenum, or small bowel, where bile from the liver and digestive juices from the pancreas mixes with it to help the digestive process.  Both bile and enzymes are needed to digest food, so it is important to diagnose any problems as quickly as possible.

Q.  Is any preparation necessary before the procedure?
A.  It is important not to eat or drink anything for at least eight hours before the exam.  Your physician will give you instructions about the use of regular medications, including blood thinners, before the exam.  Because of the mild sedation, you are not allowed to drive, operate heavy machinery or make any important decisions for up to six hours following the exam. It’s important to have someone with you to drive you home.

Q.  What happens during the EGD procedure?
A.  First, your physician will anesthetize your throat with a spray or liquid.  The endoscope is then gently inserted into the upper esophagus.  The exam takes from 15 to 30 minutes, and then you are taken to the recovery area.  There is no pain with the procedure and patients seldom remember much about it.

Gastroenterologist Services

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Florida Digestive Specialists Surgery Center

Patient Reviews

" I have been having my endoscopy with Dr. Kamath for the past 4 years. I would recommend anyone to have their procedures done at this facility. The staff is professional, loving and efficient. Everyone knows what they are doing so there’s no confusion. Dr. Kamath greets me with a smile each time I’ve met him and handled my visits to his office like I’m a human being and never a number. The facility is clean . Smells and looks great and my favorite of all is… I never wait long. The office gives you an appointment, and they take you on time. I’ll go to dr Kamath and recommend him always."
- Ruth Ilyas

Our Locations

Bay Area Endoscopy and Surgery Center
5771 49th St North
St. Petersburg, FL 33709
Tel: (727) 528-2261 

Florida Digestive Specialists
5651 49th Street
St. Petersburg, FL 33709
Tel: (727) 443-4299   Fax: (727) 443-0255

Our Hospitals

Northside Hospital
6000 49th Street North
St. Petersburg, FL 33709
Tel: (727) 521-5158

St. Petersburg General Hospital
6500 38th Ave North
St Petersburg, FL 33710
Tel: (727) 461-8057