LGBTQ+ Inclusive Care
Receive inclusive LGBTQ+ medical care at Main Line Health in a compassionate and welcoming space at locations in the Philadelphia region.
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) Test
What is an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy)?
Your doctor may recommend an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) or upper GI endoscopy if you have symptoms such as heartburn, stomach bleeding, swallowing problems, or upper abdominal pain. An EGD is a diagnostic and treatment procedure during which the doctor uses a thin lighted tube that is guided through your mouth down into your esophagus, stomach and duodenum (first part of small intestine) to examine for abnormalities.
Preparing for EGD and what to expect
Your doctor may advise you to stop taking certain medications before your test. You'll also need to arrive on an empty stomach for better results and also because you'll be receiving anesthesia (medication) to help you relax. Due to the anesthesia, you'll also need to have someone drive you home afterward.
The procedure itself involves anesthesia given through a vein in your arm to make you sleepy. You will then receive local anesthesia (numbing agent in the mouth) so you won't gag or cough when the endoscope is inserted. If you have dentures, you'll be asked to remove them beforehand.
Lying on your left side, the scope is guided down to the small intestine. Air in the scope allows the doctor to look for abnormalities in the lining of the esophagus, stomach and upper duodenum. The doctor may also use the endoscope to expand a narrowed area and may take sample tissue for biopsy.
After your lab results are back, your doctor will go over your test results with you. Abnormal findings may indicate any number of conditions, such as celiac disease, gastritis, hiatal hernia, ulcers or cancer. The EDG helps your doctor identify the cause of your symptoms so you can both determine next steps, if needed.
Palliative Care
Palliative care at Main Line Health is a service offered to seriously ill hospitalized patients. At the request of the patient's physician, the palliative care team recommends pain and symptom management.
Maternity (Obstetrics)
Our board-certified gynecologists are dedicated to serving you at every stage of your life, from adolescence to menopause and beyond. Whether you need treatment for common gynecological issues or advanced therapies and surgical expertise, we're here to provide comprehensive care and support.
Neurosurgery
Discover how Main Line Health neurosurgeons provide expert care, from routine to complex spinal and nervous system conditions for patients.
Trauma and Acute Care
Main Line Health provides life-saving care and urgent support at trauma centers located throughout the Philadelphia region.
Pain Management
Discover how Main Line Health experts serve Philadelphia by treating a wide range of conditions, including back, neck and oncology-related pain.
Orthopaedics
Orthopaedic doctors at Main Line Health treat simple to complex sports and accident-related injuries as well as the painful effects of many conditions that limit your mobility and cause pain. Find an orthopaedic surgeon near me.
Gender Care Program
We offer streamlined access to a team of medical, surgical, behavioral health and support specialists, in partnership with Main Line Health LGBTQ Inclusive Care for gender-affirming care.