Why Would My Gastroenterologist Decide to Perform an Upper Endoscopy? Upper endoscopy enables the gastroenterologist to look inside the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine). Upper endoscopy is also called EGD, which stands for esophagogastroduodenoscopy. The procedure can be performed to determine the reason for swallowing difficulties, nausea, vomiting, reflux, bleeding, indigestion, abdominal pain or chest pain. An endoscopy is much more accurate than an X-ray for detecting inflammation or abnormalities such as tumors or ulcers that are within the reach of the instrument. Its other advantage is the ability to perform biopsies (obtain small pieces of tissue) to determine whether any abnormal finding is benign or malignant. Blair Gastroenterology Associates specializes in endoscopic procedures and would be happy to accommodate your need for this type of testing. Please be sure to contact our office or speak to your primary care doctor today about referring you to one of our specialists.