Upper GI Endoscopy (EGD)
An upper GI endoscopy, also known as an EGD, is a procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera to examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine, helping your doctor find the cause of symptoms like persistent heartburn, trouble swallowing, or stomach pain.
{"A thin, flexible tube with a camera is passed through the mouth to view the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum","Helps diagnose conditions like ulcers, GERD, and stomach inflammation","Usually takes 15-30 minutes; you may receive sedation for comfort"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 112035-1
- Short code
- EGD_NARR
- Synonyms
- Background information UGI Endscpy
- Category
- cardiac
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Not applicable - procedure-based narrative report
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 22
- Ref high
- 198
- Critical range
- — – 10000 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 18 years
- Method
- endoscopy
- CPT
- 43200
- SNOMED
- 713197008
- Specimen volume
- Not applicable
- Stability
- Not applicable
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is an Upper GI Endoscopy?
An upper GI endoscopy, also called esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a procedure that allows doctors to examine the lining of your upper digestive tract. This includes the esophagus (the tube connecting your throat to your stomach), your stomach, and the first part of your small intestine called the duodenum.
How is the Procedure Performed?
During the procedure, you will lie on your side. A healthcare provider will spray a numbing medication in your throat or give you sedation to help you relax. Then, a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope—equipped with a light and camera—is gently passed through your mouth and down into your stomach. The camera sends images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to examine the tissue and look for any abnormalities.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may recommend an upper GI endoscopy if you have symptoms such as persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or unexplained weight loss. It can help diagnose conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, gastritis, celiac disease, and in some cases, stomach cancer.
How to Prepare
Before the procedure, your doctor will give you specific instructions. Typically, you will need to fast (not eat or drink) for 6-8 hours before the test. Tell your doctor about any medications you take, especially blood thinners, as you may need to adjust them. Arrange for someone to drive you home if you receive sedation.
Reference range
Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A
Patient should fast for 8-12 hours before upper GI endoscopy. Inform physician of medications, allergies, and medical conditions. Arrange for responsible adult to accompany patient if sedation is used.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Upper GI endoscopy is a valuable diagnostic tool that allows direct visualization of the upper digestive tract. It enables doctors to detect inflammation, ulcers, tumors, and other abnormalities. During the procedure, biopsies can be taken for further laboratory analysis, and small interventions—such as stopping bleeding or removing polyps—can be performed. This test is considered the gold standard for evaluating conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
Frequently asked questions
Is the procedure painful?
How long does it take?
What are the risks?
When will I get my results?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy