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An endoscopy is the visual examination of the upper intestinal tract (the esophagus, stomach, duodenum and biliary tract), the lower intestinal tract (colon, sigmoid and rectum), and/or the lungs. A gastroenterologist, a general surgeon or a pulmonologist performs endoscopic procedures.
Digestive discomforts like heartburn, stomach upset, acid reflux and painful gas could be symptoms of serious medical problems. If you have questions about your digestive health, but aren’t quite sure where to begin, start with a digestive health assessment and learn more about conditions you may have.
Prior to the procedure, patients receive a sedative intravenously (through the vein) that makes them feel drowsy and relaxed. During the procedure, the physician will use an endoscope – a thin flexible tube – to pass into the digestive tract. The endoscope has a light and a camera, which produces a color image of the inside of the digestive tract or the lungs.
The St. Francis Endoscopy Department team treats a variety of disorders, including ulcers, hiatal hernia, reflux syndrome and other upper GI diseases. We may also provide treatment for rectal bleeding, hemorrhoids, colon polyps, diverticulitis and any lower intestinal disease. Additionally, care is provided to patients with obstructive biliary or pancreatic disease, lung disorders and/or foreign body removal.