Final answer:
During an EGD, a biopsy can be collected and an endoscopic ultrasound may be performed. Ultrasounds are the safest imaging technique during pregnancy, as they don't use radiation. MRI scans are expensive and require shielding from magnetic signals, but they do not emit radiation.
Step-by-step explanation:
During an Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), besides visualization of the gastrointestinal tract, a biopsy collection can be performed. This procedure allows for the removal of tissue samples which are then examined microscopically for abnormalities such as inflammation, infection, or cancer. EGD is a valuable tool for diagnosing and monitoring diseases of the upper digestive system.
An endoscopic ultrasound may also be conducted during an EGD. This technique involves a probe that emits sound waves to create images of internal organs, which can be used for spotting conditions like gall stones or assessing severe pancreatitis, without the risks associated with more invasive procedures.
For the safest imaging study during pregnancy, the ultrasound is the most appropriate choice. Unlike CT scans, PET scans, or X-rays, ultrasounds do not involve electromagnetic radiation and are the least invasive, making them the safest option for monitoring the fetus.
Two major disadvantages of MRI scans are the high cost and the need for shielding from the magnetic signals. MRI scans do not release radiation nor do they confine patients to metal tubes; those are misconceptions. MRI technology uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the body.