Your GI health is so important. Accordingly, if you have unresolved symptoms or your gastroenterologist wants clearer results than an X-ray screening or CT scan give, an endoscopy may be the best test for you. At Mesquite Gastroenterology and Surgery Center in Tucson, AZ, Dr. Miguel Arenas performs endoscopic examination, or EGD, comfortably and quickly.
What is an endoscopy?
Performed by your GI doctor in his Tucson office, an endoscopy is a minimally-invasive diagnostic procedure that visualizes the interior of the upper gastrointestinal tract. After lightly sedating you and positioning you on your side or back, Dr. Arenas inserts a thin, flexible tube down your throat.
The tube contains a light and high-definition camera which captures still and video images of your:
- Esophagus
- Stomach
- Upper portion of the small intestine, or duodenum
These pictures help him to detect disease and deformity. He may also remove small tissue samples for lab analysis. The American Cancer Society (ACS) says that an endoscopy samples nearby lymph nodes and other areas of the GI tract as needed.
Why would you need an endoscopic examination?
An endoscopy helps your Tucson GI physician determine why you have such concerning symptoms such as vomiting, bleeding, diarrhea, constipation, or acid reflux. He can see if you have ulcers, tumors, celiac disease, or other abnormalities that may be congenital in origin. With the information he gathers, Dr. Arenas can formulate the proper treatment plan suited to your unique needs.
What is the procedure like?
EGD takes only 15 to 30 minutes to complete and is very comfortable. You'll feel nothing more than a little pressure, and in fact, some people sleep right through their endoscopies.
Afterward, you will rest in the recovery room and receive your test results from Dr. Arenas. You'll be driven home by a responsible adult to rest for the balance of the day.
Find out more
If you need an endoscopy, don't worry. You'll be in good hands at Mesquite Gastroenterology and Surgery Center in Tucson, AZ. Dr. Miguel Arenas and his team provide quality GI care that you can rely on. Call us to learn more: (520) 722-0745.