Endoscopy
Milford Regional’s esteemed team of board-certified gastroenterologists and nurses are highly skilled in gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures utilizing the latest video and computerized equipment in a safe, effective and supportive environment.
The Gastrointestinal Endoscopy unit offers a full range of endoscopic services for comprehensive evaluation and treatment of the GI tract. These services include:
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
Examination of the esophagus from the throat to the stomach pouch and small intestine, just beyond the stomach. Biopsy, cytology, specimen collection, and dilation of strictures may be necessary.
Endoscopic retrograde cannulation of common bile and pancreatic ducts (ERCP)
Examination of the duodenum with the placement of a small tube through the instrument into the duct entrances in the duodenum, allowing injection of dye and x-ray examination of an otherwise frequently inaccessible area. Abdominal pain and inflammation of the pancreas are additional recognized risks.
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG)
This safe alternative to surgery allows the placement of a feeding tube into the stomach pouch and exiting through a small incision in the skin of the abdominal wall. EGD is done in conjunction to assist in the placement of the feeding tube. Infection is a small risk.
Esophageal Dilatation
The narrowed esophagus may be dilated (stretched) to a more normal size during an EGD by inserting a small tube through the scope and inflating it with water until the area is dilated; or, various sized dilators are swallowed, from a small diameter to a large one until the stricture (narrowing) is widened.
Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS)
This procedure allows your doctor to examine your esophageal and stomach linings as well as the walls of your upper and lower gastrointestinal tract. EUS is also used to study other organs that are near the gastrointestinal tract, including the lungs, liver, gall bladder and pancreas. EUS provides your doctor with more information than other imaging tests by providing detailed images of your digestive tract.
EUS is also used to evaluate known abnormalities, including lumps or lesions, which were detected at a prior endoscopy or were seen on x-ray tests, such as a computed tomography (CT) scan.
EUS provides a detailed image of the lump or lesion, which can help your doctor determine its origin and help with treatment decisions.
EUS can be used to diagnose diseases of the pancreas, bile duct and gallbladder when other tests are inconclusive or conflicting. Inflammation of the pancreas and infection are additional recognized risks.
Colonoscopy
Examination of all or a portion of the colon requiring careful preparation with diet, enemas, and medication or drinking a prescribed cleaning solution. Older patients, those with previous pelvic surgery, and those with extensive diverticulosis possibly are more prone to complications.
Sigmoidoscopy
Examination of the anus, rectum and lower colon (large intestine) usually to a depth or 10 inches.
Capsule Endoscopy
You will be given a pill sized video camera to swallow. This camera has its own light source and takes pictures of your small intestine as it passes through. These pictures are sent to a small recording device you have to wear on your body. Your doctor will be able to view these pictures at a later time and might be able to provide you with useful information regarding your small intestine. Capsule endoscopy is a safe procedure that carries few risks. However, it's possible for a capsule to become lodged in the digestive tract rather than leaving your body in a bowel movement within several days.
Read a patient testimonial about our endoscopy staff.
