Oesophago-Gastro-Duodenoscopy (OGD)

What is an OGD?

OGD is short for Oesophago-Gastro-Duodenoscopy.  It is a camera test where the doctor looks at the upper parts of your childs’ digestive system or upper gastrointestinal tract, to help identify if there is a reason for your childs’ symptoms.  The procedure is performed under a general anaesthetic.  A thin flexible tube with a small camera and light at the end is passed down the oesophagus (food pipe), stomach and into the duodenum (first part of the small intestine).

The doctor may take pictures using the camera for your childs’ notes.  Small samples of tissue from the different parts of the gastrointestinal tract may also be take (biopsies) for specialists to look at using a microscope.  The purpose of the OGD is to look for signs of inflammation, ulcers or changes found in certain conditions. The test takes 15 – 30 minutes and the results will usually take 4- 6 weeks.

Are there any risks?

An endoscopy is a low risk procedure but with all medical investigations there is a small risk of complications.  These include your child having a sore throat, bloating, abdominal pain, sickness, vomiting small spots of blood (look like coffee granules) for up to 72 hours, infection risk is small, damage to the wall of the food pipe, stomach or small intestine (approximately 1/1000).

Will I be followed up?

We would expect you to go home the same day once your child has had something to eat, drink and has passed urine.  The results will be discussed at the next clinic appointment or a letter would be sent out.

Should your child develop the following symptoms please seek medical advice as an emergency by attending your nearest A&E:

1)       Vomiting large amount of bright red blood or clots

2)      Severe tummy pain or swollen tummy

3)      Becomes generally unwell e.g. a temperature

4)      Refuses to eat or drink

5)      Is unusually sleepy or refuses to wake up