Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
What is gastrointestinal endoscopy?
Gastrointestinal endoscopy is a procedure that allows doctors to view the digestive tract via an endoscope, which is a fiber-optic tube that has a small camera and light at its tip. The scope is inserted via the mouth or anus. This procedure takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
Why is a gastrointestinal endoscopy performed?
Gastrointestinal endoscopy is utilized to diagnose abdominal pain and the complaints associated with it. This discomfort can be indicative of cancer; therefore we feel it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention if a patient is experiencing this.
What is an EGD?
An EGD (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is utilized to diagnose problems in the upper gastrointestinal (UGI) tract. An EGD is performed with an endoscope, a fiber-optic tube with a light and camera at its tip, which is inserted into the mouth. The endoscope is advanced slowly through the pharynx, reaching and examining the esophagus, stomach, and the first and second portions of the small bowel. This procedure takes approximately 5 to 20 minutes.
Why is an EGD performed?
An EGD is performed to diagnose numerous gastrointestinal symptoms such as:
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Low blood count, known as anemia, that is inexplicable
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Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen
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Difficulty swallowing
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Nausea or vomiting that does not subside
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Regurgitation of food
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Black or tarry stools
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Vomiting blood
Please visit our FAQs page for further information on EGD's.
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is an endoscopic procedure that is used to detect changes or abnormalities of the colon. An endoscope, a tube that has a camera and light at its tip, is inserted into the anus, advanced through the rectum reaching the colon. This allows for physicians to obtain images of the colon and to properly diagnose the internal issue. This procedure takes approximately 45 minutes.
Why is a colonoscopy performed?
A colonoscopy is performed to diagnose numerous gastrointestinal symptoms such as:
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Blood in stool
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Diarrhea
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Abdominal pain
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Abnormal bowel movements
Please visit our FAQs page for further information on a colonoscopy.