Susquehanna Gastroenterology

Susquehanna Endoscopy Center

Susquehanna Endoscopy, LLC.

Factors related to diet, environment and heredity can affect the upper GI (gastrointestinal) tract leading to numerous disorders. These can develop into a variety of diseases and/or symptoms. The upper gastrointestinal tract begins with the mouth and continues with the esophagus (food tube), which carries food to the stomach. The food then enters the small bowel, where bile from the liver and digestive juices from the pancreas mixes with it to help the digestive process.

What Is GI Endoscopy?
Upper GI endoscopy, sometimes called EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), is a visual examination of the upper intestinal tract using a lighted, flexible endoscope. GI endoscopy is performed primarily to identify and/or correct a problem. If a bleeding site is identified, treatment can stop the bleeding. If a polyp is found, it can be removed without a major operation. Other treatments can be given through the endoscope when necessary.

Our medical services include consultations, diagnosis and treatment options, and recommendations for the prevention of digestive diseases.

Upper GI endoscopy is usually performed on an outpatient basis. It is important not to eat or drink anything for at least eight hours before the exam. The physician instructs the patient about the use of regular medications, including blood thinners, before the exam.

During the exam, the throat is anesthetized by spray or liquid. Intravenous sedation is usually given to relax the patient, dampen the gag reflex and cause short-term forgetfulness. For some individuals who can relax on their own and whose gagging can be controlled, the exam is done without intravenous medications. The endoscope is then gently inserted into the upper esophagus. The patient can breathe easily throughout the exam.

Other instruments can be passed through the endoscope to perform additional procedures if necessary. For example, a biopsy can be done on small tissue specimens obtained through the endoscope for microscopic analysis. A polyp or tumor can be removed using a thin wire snare and electrocautery (electrical heat).

The exam takes from 10 to 15 minutes, after which the patient is taken to the recovery area. There is no pain with the procedure and patients seldom remember much about it. A temporary, mild throat irritation sometimes occurs after the exam. Because of the mild sedative used, the patient should not drive or operate machinery following the exam. For this reason, someone else should be available to drive the patient home.

Alternative tests to upper GI endoscopy include a barium X-ray and ultrasound (sonogram) to study the organs in the upper abdomen. Study of the stools, blood and stomach juice can provide indirect information about the gastrointestinal condition. These exams, however, do not allow for a direct viewing of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum, removing of polyps or taking of biopsies.