An endoscopy is a procedure that allows your gastroenterologist to diagnose and treat conditions that affect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. At Gastrointestinal Consultants in Tavares, Orlando, and The Villages, Florida, board-certified physicians Lalbahadur Nagabhairu, MD, and Shams Tabrez, MD, and the team perform an upper endoscopy to examine and treat conditions that affect the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine. To learn more about endoscopies, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.
An endoscopy, or upper endoscopy, is a test that examines the lining of your upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This includes your esophagus, stomach, and first part of your small intestine — the duodenum.
Gastroenterologists use a special tool called an endoscope to evaluate these body parts. The endoscope is a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera. Your gastroenterologist inserts the endoscope in your mouth and advances it slowly through the upper GI tract.
The endoscope transmits live-action video to a computer monitor so your gastroenterologist can examine the lining, looking for abnormalities.
Your gastroenterologist at Gastrointestinal Consultants explains to you why you need an endoscopy. The team may perform the procedure to find the underlying cause of your abdominal pain, ongoing heartburn, or pain when swallowing.
They conduct the upper endoscopy to diagnose conditions such as:
The team also performs endoscopies to treat conditions. For example, they perform an esophageal dilation (widening of the esophagus) if you have esophageal strictures.
The Gastrointestinal Consultants team provides detailed instructions on how to prepare for your endoscopy.
They request you stop eating 6-12 hours before your test. They also ask that you stop taking aspirin and other blood-thinning medications or supplements several days before your procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding.
The Gastrointestinal Consultants team wants you to feel as comfortable as possible during your endoscopy. They first spray a numbing agent on your throat and then insert an intravenous (IV) line in your arm for sedation.
While you lie on your left side on the exam table, your gastroenterologist inserts the endoscope in your mouth and slowly advances it through your esophagus, stomach, and small intestine.
Your gastroenterologist closely examines the lining and takes samples of any abnormal tissue for a biopsy. They may also perform any necessary procedures. The endoscopy typically takes 5-20 minutes.
The team sends you to the recovery area for monitoring, and then you can go home. You must arrange to have someone drive you home after your endoscopy and take the rest of the day off. Most people get back to their usual routine the next day.
For personalized care from a highly skilled team, call Gastrointestinal Consultants or book an appointment online today.