Upper GI Endoscopy
The endoscope has revolutionized the field of Gastroenterology. Through it, the physician can directly examine almost any part of the intestinal tract. Biopsies can be obtained, polyps removed and clear images obtained. But, as with any invasive procedure, we know that such a procedure can produce anxiety and uncertainty. To allay your fears and reduce your stress level, we invite you to learn more about your scheduled procedure by clicking on the appropriate link below.
This procedure is done with intravenous sedation and the throat maybe numbed by a topical anesthetic. The doctor will use the Endoscope, which is a flexible tube with a video camera and light that can show images on a video screen. You will be placed on your left side with your chin toward the chest to aid in the passage of small flexible tube through your mouth. The procedure takes about 20 minutes but you will be kept at the endoscopy center for a total of 2 hours to make sure that you recover adequately from the procedure and sedation.
Preparation
You will be provided a paper at your consultation or by email that explains these instructions.
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight prior to your procedure. If your appointment is in the afternoon, you may have sips of water or ice chips until 6 hours before the exam. It is very important that your stomach is empty to perform the procedure safely and avoid any complications.
If you are taking certain medications that can lead to excessive bleeding ,such as Coumadin, Eliquis, Xarelto, Pradaxa, please check with your prescribing doctor if you need to hold it few days prior to your appointment.
Do not take Iron pills 7 days before your exam.
You will be given a copy of your endoscopy report and discharge instructions before leaving the endoscopy center. Someone must drive you home. We will not be able to perform your procedure if you do not have an available driver to take you home.