Have you been told you need an endoscopy procedure? Wondering what this is and why it is done? We at Digestive Medicine Associates are here to explain. We’re the leaders in Gastroenterology in Hialeah, Coral Gables, Kendall, and Pembroke Pines, FL.
What is an Endoscopy?
Using a flexible lighted tube, this procedure has a camera where the doctors can examine the digestive tract on a monitor to look for abnormalities. It is non-surgical and the names of the procedure depend on where they are looking. Passing through the mouth and looking at the upper GI tract is from an upper endoscopy. Passing through the rectum to look at the intestines and colon is a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. Looking at the pancreas or gallbladder is called an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography or ERCP.
Why are Endoscopies Needed?
If you have unexplained symptoms, an endoscopy is great to evaluate certain organ systems in the body. While examining, we can also take biopsies of tissue at the same time, saving time and leading to a diagnosis even faster. Endoscopies are typically done to look for:
- Colon polyps or growths
- Digestive tract bleeding
- Gastritis or ulcers
- Causes of stomach pain
- Reasons for swallowing difficulties
- Reasons for bowel habit changes
Endoscopy Preparation
Depending on which procedure is being done, you may only have to fast prior to the endoscopy or may need a laxative to prep. This is to prepare the tract so that there is an optimum vision of the area. Sedation is also provided so that the patient is comfortable and at ease. Talk with your doctor if there is any concern about the preparation for the procedure. Generally, you will want someone to be able to drive you home after the endoscopy as you will still be under the sedation effects.
If you have other questions or concerns about this procedure or if you’d like to make an appointment with one of our expert gastroenterologists, give our office a call at (305) 822-4107. We serve the entire Hialeah, Coral Gables, Kendall, and Pembroke Pines, FL area.
