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Upper & lower endoscopy –
A mainstay of our care. A tiny camera, or “scope,”
is used to diagnose problems in your gastrointestinal tract.
Can also be used for certain treatments.
Colonoscopy– A
scope procedure used to identify and even remove precancerous
polyps. Also screens for
colon cancer and other diseases
of the large intestine and rectum.
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography
(ERCP) – A specialized technique for studying
the drainage ducts of the gallbladder, pancreas and liver.
A small scope is passed through the mouth into the first
part of the small intestine, then contrast material is gently
injected into the ducts and X-ray films are taken.
Capsule Endoscopy (PillCam) –
This small bowel capsule camera which is small enough to be ingested
by the patient, takes 2 pictures each second as it passes through the
small bowel. As physicians we are finding this very helpful in looking
for the causes of hidden bleeding, anemia, or Crohn's disease.
Capsule Endoscopy is an indispensable tool for bridging the diagnostic
gap in diagnosing diseases of the small intestine.
Manometry – Evaluates
the muscle contractions of the esophagus — and the
muscle valve at the lower end of the esophagus — that
move food down into the stomach. Helps diagnose heartburn,
chest pain, difficulty swallowing food or water and other
problems.
24-hour pH study –
The “gold standard” for determining if gastroesophageal
reflux is present and if its episodes are related to certain
symptoms, such as chest pain. A special monitor measures
the pH in the lower esophagus during symptoms, checking
to see if they coincide with the increased acidity of reflux.
Laser therapy –
Used to treat several conditions, including lesions in the
stomach and colon.
Infrared coagulation (IRC) –
A quick, safe and effective way to treat hemorrhoids in
our endoscopy center. Infrared light is used to coagulate
the hemorrhoid, with minimal pain or discomfort. Usually
allows for a return to work the same day or next day.
Liver biopsy –
Tissue samples help identify the presence of hepatitis or
other disorders.
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