An upper GI endoscopy or EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is a procedure to diagnose and treat problems in your upper GI (gastrointestinal) tract. The upper GI tract includes your food pipe (esophagus), stomach, and the first part of your small intestine (the duodenum). An upper GI endoscopy can be used to identify disorders or problems such as: GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) Narrowing (strictures) or blockages. Larger than normal veins in your esophagus (esophageal varices) — Lokmanya T