Endoscopy
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Advanced Gastroenterology Associates of SA
Board Certified Gastroenterologist located in San Antonio, TX
If you're experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms that need further investigation, endoscopy is one of the most useful ways of diagnosing your condition. Board-certified gastroenterologist Muhammad Naeem, MD, at Advanced Gastroenterology Associates of SA in San Antonio, Texas, specializes in performing endoscopies, including advanced procedures like endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and interventional biliary endoscopy. Call the practice today to find out more or book an appointment online.
Endoscopy Q & A
What is an endoscopy?
An endoscopy is a minimally invasive method of examining your upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which consists of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the upper part of your small intestine).
Your provider at Advanced Gastroenterology Associates of SA can diagnose conditions affecting these organs, and also treat certain problems using endoscopy. To perform your endoscopy, your provider uses an instrument called an endoscope.
An endoscope is a narrow tube fitted with a camera and a light source. Your provider passes one end of the endoscope into your throat and feeds it down into your stomach. The camera sends back a live feed that shows every area of your upper digestive tract in great detail.
Can endoscopy be used in other parts of the body?
The Advanced Gastroenterology Associates of SA team also uses endoscopic technology to perform interventional biliary endoscopy. They specialize in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), an endoscopic technique used for accessing the gallbladder, pancreatic ducts, and bile ducts.
The team also uses endoscopic techniques to perform an exam of your rectum and lower colon (sigmoidoscopy) or your entire colon (colonoscopy).
When would I need an endoscopy?
The Advanced Gastroenterology Associates of SA team uses endoscopy to find out what might be causing symptoms such as:
- Upper abdominal pain
- Swallowing difficulties
- Acid reflux/heartburn
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Chronic diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
Your provider can also take tissue samples or biopsies for analysis. If they find a bleeding ulcer, your provider passes special instruments down the endoscope to seal the wounds.
What does having an endoscopy involve?
An endoscopy is an outpatient procedure at Advanced Gastroenterology Associates of SA that requires only sedation, not anesthesia. It's important to stop eating for a certain period before your endoscopy to ensure your provider has a clear view of the tissues inside your stomach and duodenum. You'll get instructions about preparing for your exam before you arrive for the procedure.
When you're ready, your provider feeds the endoscope into your throat and down to your stomach. The sedative makes you relax and feel sleepy throughout the endoscopy so you won't find it too stressful.
Once your provider completes the endoscopy, they withdraw the endoscope. The sedative should wear off in about an hour, and your provider can give you the results of the procedure.
To find out more about the range of specialized endoscopies available or to schedule a consultation, call Advanced Gastroenterology Associates of SA today or book an appointment online.
