Colonoscopy and EGD

As a trusted surgical practice serving Westerville, Columbus and the greater Central Ohio region, Westerville Surgical Specialists offers advanced endoscopic services including colonoscopy and EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy). These procedures allow our experienced surgeons to carefully examine the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract using a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and camera so we can detect disease early and plan personalized care.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a procedure that examines the colon (large bowel) and the tip of the small bowel called terminal ileum.

A colonoscopy is a procedure that examines the colon (large bowel) and the tip of the small bowel called the terminal ileum. In Columbus, we routinely perform screening colonoscopies for individuals starting at age 45. Common indications for the procedure include rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and a family history of bowel cancer. The doctor can also take biopsies to look for early signs of cancer, infection, and inflammation, and also remove colon polyps. Removed polyps are examined closely to determine if they are pre-cancerous. The procedure can take 15 to 20 minutes.

During the procedure, patients receive a mild sedative and pain medication for comfort. A registered nurse assists the doctor during the procedure and an anesthetist monitors vital signs.

EGD

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, also referred to as EGD or Gastroscopy, enables our doctors to see inside the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract – esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.

This procedure is used to analyze swallowing difficulties, nausea, vomiting, reflux, bleeding, indigestion, and abdominal pain or chest pain, and for upper GI cancer screening, particularly in those with a family history of gastric or esophageal cancer. Small tissue samples (biopsies) of the upper GI tract can be obtained for further analysis. The procedure can take 5 to 10 minutes.

During the procedure, patients receive a mild sedative and pain medication for comfort. A registered nurse assists the doctor during the procedure and an anesthetist monitors vital signs.

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