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EndoscopyWhat is Endoscopy?
Endoscopy is the visualization of the internal organs through the use of a flexible instrument inserted through the mouth or the rectum. Endoscopes utilize a video chip and strobe light so as to capture an image, which is then displayed on a video monitor. This allows careful visual inspection of the entire lining surface of the organ being examined. Like surgery, Endoscopy is considered "invasive," in that it goes inside the body. But unlike surgery, Endoscopy is not operative. Organs that can be visualized by endoscope include the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, colon, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. 96% of procedures done in CVMC's Endoscopy Department are outpatient procedures.
When Would Endoscopy Be Used?
Upper endoscopy refers to the inspection of the upper digestive tract, or esophagus, stomach and duodenum. This is most frequently performed in order to diagnose abdominal pain and bleeding. Causes of these include inflammation within the stomach, ulcers and heartburn.
New Test for Heartburn Now Available
Bravo, a patient-friendly test for heartburn is now available in the Endoscopy Department at CVMC. The traditional way to measure pH levels is to place a catheter, which is connected to a monitoring device on the patient's belt, down the nose and into the esophagus. This remains in place for 24 hours.
Bravo is a catheter-free monitoring system that involves a miniature pH capsule, approximately the size of a gel cap, which takes only moments to place in the esophagus. The patient wears a pager-sized receiver on their waistband. The test lasts 24 hours while you eat normally and go about your daily routine without any restrictions. The capsule is passed through the digestive tract and is eliminated from the body.
When Would Colonoscopy Be Used?
Inspection of the lower digestive tract is called colonoscopy. This is most frequently utilized to remove polyps, or small growths within the colon, or large intestine, that may become cancerous over time.
American Cancer Society Recommendation:
The American Cancer Society recommends that a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy, or "short" colonoscopy, be performed every three years in people over the age of 50. There are a number of circumstances where a full colonoscopy is warranted rather than flexible sigmoidoscopy for colon cancer screening. Talk to your doctor about what is best for you and see our recommendations for other Health Screenings.
What to Expect:
If your doctor has requested that you have an Endoscopic procedure (including a Colonoscopy), you should:
- Follow any pre-procedure instructions that may have to do with restricting diet or other preparations
- Expect a call the day before your procedure for additional instructions
- Come to the Patient Registration area just off the Main Lobby with your insurance card about one hour before the time of the scheduled exam. If you completed your registration over the phone with a Patient Registration Representative, report directly to the department.
- Check-in at the desk when you arrive in the Endoscopy Department
- Follow instructions of the staff regarding getting ready for your test
- Be prepared to wait - though every effort is made to have your tests performed on-time, it is not unusual for there to be a waiting time. This could be because of unforeseen emergencies.
- Receive light sedation
- Have your test performed
- After you have recovered from your procedure, you will be told when you can leave
- Have someone called or ready to take you home
- Expect a call following the procedure to check on you
Staff:
The Endoscopy area is staffed by registered and licensed practical nurses under the direction of the Director of Ambulatory Nursing Services. The Medical Staff designates a Gastroenterologist as the Chair of the Endoscopy Unit. There are three Gastroenterologists on the CVMC Medical Staff. These physicians specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the digestive system and perform most procedures done in the Endoscopy area. Five general surgeons also perform certain diagnostic procedures in the Endoscopy area.
Hours:
7 am - 4: 30 pm, Monday through Friday
Off-shifts are covered by personnel who are on-call
Contact Us:
For information, call 371-4363
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