Endoscopy

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Endoscopy allows your doctor to visualize various areas inside your body using an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube fitted with a camera. A number of endoscopic procedures are used at Bravera Health Seven Rivers to examine various parts of the body or treat certain conditions, including:

• Arthroscopy visualizes inside the joints
• Bronchoscopy examines the airways and lungs
• Colonoscopy looks at the large intestine and rectum
• Cystoscopy views the inside of the bladder
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) examines the stomach and duodenum and injects dyes in the biliary tree and pancreas
• Enteroscopy studies the small intestine (small bowel)
• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) visualizes the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract
• Laparoscopy explores the abdomen or pelvis
• Sigmoidoscopy assesses the lower part of the colon
• Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy investigates the esophagus and stomach

During the exam, an endoscope is passed through a natural opening in the body (such as the mouth or anus) or your doctor may make a small incision, such as in the pelvic or abdominal area for a laparoscopic exam.

Endoscopy can also be used to perform a biopsy or remove tissue, and the endoscope can be fitted with various devices such as lasers, ultrasound devices or tiny surgical instruments. A mild sedative is used during most endoscopic procedures.

Our endoscopy suite combines the expertise of well-respected and skilled gastroenterologists, surgeons and pulmonologists. They are complimented by the support of experienced GI certified nurses, skilled RNs and gastroenterology technicians.

We provide care and treatment for gastric and pulmonary related disorders with special attention to indigestion, heartburn, difficulty swallowing and bowel related problems. Additionally, providers perform bronchoscopy procedures for those with lung disorders. Many people are affected by symptoms that interfere with the quality of life. When untreated or undiagnosed, these symptoms may progress into a more serious condition, including cancer.

The procedures performed at Bravera Health Seven Rivers are diagnostic and therapeutic. Most procedures involve the use of a flexible endoscope or scope for short. The scope is used to look into the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, colon and even the lungs. In addition the scope can be used to take biopsies, remove polyps, insert stents or stop a patient from bleeding.

The staff at our facilities takes pride in providing quality care. Nurses and anesthesiologist work side by side with the proceduralists to provide our patients with a safe and comfortable experience.