Upper GI Endoscopy in Dallas & Plano, TX

Diagnostic Upper Endoscopy (EGD) for Digestive Conditions

Upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, also called an upper endoscopy or esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the esophagus, stomach, and first portion of the small intestine. Using a thin, flexible tube equipped with a camera, doctors can identify conditions such as acid reflux, ulcers, inflammation, and other digestive disorders without making surgical incisions.

Dr. Preeti Malladi is a board-certified general surgeon with advanced training in minimally invasive and gastrointestinal procedures. She performs upper GI endoscopy for patients in Dallas, Plano, and throughout North Texas to evaluate digestive symptoms, investigate gastrointestinal conditions, and help guide appropriate treatment. Endoscopy may also be recommended as part of an evaluation before bariatric or anti-reflux surgery.

Why Choose Dr. Malladi for Upper GI Endoscopy?

Dr. Preeti Malladi is a board-certified general surgeon with advanced training in minimally invasive general and gastrointestinal surgery. She completed her general surgery residency at UCLA and fellowship training at Northwestern University. As a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), Dr. Malladi combines her surgical expertise with a personalized approach to diagnosing and treating digestive conditions. Her experience in bariatric and anti-reflux surgery also allows her to consider how endoscopy findings may influence a patient’s overall treatment plan.

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When Is an Upper GI Endoscopy Recommended?

An upper GI endoscopy may be recommended when a patient has persistent digestive symptoms or unexplained findings that require further evaluation. Common reasons for the procedure include:

  • Frequent heartburn or persistent acid reflux
  • Difficulty or pain when swallowing
  • Recurring upper abdominal pain
  • Persistent nausea or vomiting
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Unexplained anemia or certain nutritional deficiencies

An upper endoscopy allows Dr. Malladi to examine the digestive tract directly and determine whether additional testing or treatment is needed.

What Conditions Can an Upper Endoscopy Diagnose?

Upper GI endoscopy helps identify a variety of conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine, including:

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Persistent acid reflux that may cause irritation or damage to the esophagus.
  • Gastritis and Esophagitis: Inflammation of the stomach lining or esophagus.
  • Peptic Ulcers: Sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or upper small intestine.
  • Hiatal Hernias: A condition in which part of the stomach moves upward through an opening in the diaphragm.
  • Barrett’s Esophagus: Changes in the esophageal lining associated with chronic acid reflux.
  • Celiac Disease: An immune-mediated condition affecting the small intestine that may be evaluated through tissue biopsies.
  • Abnormal Growths: Polyps, precancerous changes, and certain cancers affecting the upper digestive tract.

During the procedure, Dr. Malladi may collect small tissue samples, called biopsies, to help confirm a diagnosis. In certain situations, endoscopy can also be used to treat bleeding, widen narrowed areas of the digestive tract, or remove foreign objects.

How to Prepare for an Upper GI Endoscopy

Before your upper endoscopy, Dr. Malladi and her team will provide instructions to help you prepare for the procedure. Patients are typically asked to avoid eating and drinking for a specified period beforehand so the upper digestive tract can be examined clearly.

Be sure to inform your care team about any medical conditions and medications you take, particularly blood thinners, diabetes medications, and supplements. Some medications may need to be adjusted before the procedure, but you should not stop taking prescribed medications unless instructed by your healthcare provider.

Because sedation is commonly used during an upper endoscopy, you will also need to arrange for someone to drive you home afterward.

What Happens During an Upper GI Endoscopy?

An upper GI endoscopy is typically performed in a hospital or outpatient surgery center. Patients usually receive sedation to help them remain relaxed and comfortable during the procedure. A numbing medication may also be used to reduce discomfort in the throat.

Dr. Malladi gently guides a thin, flexible endoscope through the mouth and into the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine. A small camera provides detailed images of the digestive tract, allowing her to examine the tissue for inflammation, ulcers, abnormal growths, and other concerns. If necessary, small tissue samples may be collected for further testing.

The examination itself typically takes about 10 to 30 minutes, although additional procedures may take longer. Upper endoscopy does not require surgical incisions, and most patients return home the same day.

upper gi endoscopy in Dallas & Plano

What to Expect After an Upper GI Endoscopy

Following an upper endoscopy, patients remain in a recovery area while the effects of sedation begin to wear off. Temporary bloating, mild nausea, or a sore throat may occur but usually improve within a day or two. Most patients can resume normal eating once they are fully alert and able to swallow comfortably, unless otherwise instructed by their doctor.

Patients should plan to rest for the remainder of the day and avoid driving or other activities restricted by their sedation instructions. Some endoscopy results may be available immediately, while biopsy results typically take several days or longer. Dr. Malladi will review the findings and discuss any recommended follow-up care or treatment.

What Are the Risks of an Upper GI Endoscopy?

Upper GI endoscopy is generally a safe procedure with a low risk of serious complications. However, potential risks include bleeding, injury or perforation of the digestive tract, infection, and reactions to sedation. Complications are uncommon, particularly during diagnostic procedures, but the risks may be greater when additional treatments are performed. Dr. Malladi evaluates each patient’s medical history and health conditions to help minimize potential risks.

Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience severe or worsening chest or abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, fever, vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, or worsening difficulty swallowing after the procedure.

Upper Endoscopy Before Bariatric or Acid Reflux Surgery

Upper GI endoscopy may also be recommended as part of the evaluation process before weight loss surgery or surgical treatment for chronic acid reflux. The procedure allows Dr. Malladi to examine the esophagus and stomach for conditions such as inflammation, ulcers, hiatal hernias, or other abnormalities that could influence treatment decisions.

For patients considering bariatric surgery or procedures to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), endoscopy can provide valuable information to help determine the most appropriate surgical approach. Whether an endoscopy is needed depends on the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and planned procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Upper GI Endoscopy

Yes. Upper GI endoscopy, upper endoscopy, and esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) are different names for the same procedure. An EGD allows a doctor to examine the esophagus, stomach, and first portion of the small intestine using a flexible camera.

Most patients experience little discomfort during an upper endoscopy because sedation is commonly used to help them relax. A numbing medication may also be applied to the throat. Mild throat soreness or bloating can occur afterward but typically resolves quickly.

The examination itself usually takes approximately 10 to 30 minutes, although additional procedures may require more time. Patients should allow extra time for preparation, sedation, and recovery before returning home.

Many patients receive sedation that makes them sleepy and relaxed, and some may not remember the procedure. The type and level of sedation depend on the patient’s medical needs and the procedure being performed.

An upper endoscopy can identify inflammation, tissue damage, and other complications associated with chronic acid reflux. However, some patients with GERD have normal endoscopy findings. Additional testing, such as esophageal pH monitoring, may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Yes. Small tissue samples can be collected during an upper endoscopy to help diagnose conditions such as gastritis, celiac disease, Barrett’s esophagus, or abnormal growths. Biopsies are typically painless, and results are usually available within several days or longer.

If sedation is used, you will need someone to drive you home after the procedure. Sedative medications can temporarily affect judgment, coordination, and alertness, even if you feel fully awake. Your care team will provide instructions about when you can safely resume driving and other activities.

Schedule an Upper GI Endoscopy Consultation in Dallas or Plano

If you’re experiencing persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, upper abdominal pain, or other digestive symptoms, Dr. Preeti Malladi can help determine whether an upper GI endoscopy is appropriate. Malladi Bariatrics & Advanced Surgery provides personalized diagnostic and surgical care for patients throughout Dallas, Plano, and North Texas. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

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