Diagnostic Studies

Diagnostic Studies A variety of diagnostic studies are available to help diagnose and manage your gastrointestinal condition. Your doctor will determine which study is right for you. Upper Endoscopy Also known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), this procedure enables your doctor to examine the lining of the upper part of your gastrointestinal tract, i.e., the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. During the procedure, a long, thin, flexible tube with a light and camera at its tip is passed through your mouth and throat. The camera sends images of your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum to a monitor. Your doctor will be able to see any abnormalities more clearly via the monitor. Colonoscopy This procedure enables your doctor to examine the lining of your large intestine (colon). During the procedure, a long, thin, flexible tube with a light and camera at its tip is passed through your anus and rectum and into your colon. The camera sends images of your colon to a monitor. Your doctor will be able to see any abnormalities more clearly via the monitor. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy This procedure enables your doctor to examine the lining of your rectum and sigmoid colon (lower part of your large intestine). During the procedure, a long, thin, flexible tube with a light and camera at its tip is passed through your anus and rectum and into your sigmoid colon. The camera sends images of your rectum and sigmoid colon to a monitor. Your doctor will be able to see any abnormalities more clearly via the monitor. Video Capsule Endoscopy This procedure uses a small, disposable capsule that contains a camera. You swallow the capsule, and as it travels through your digestive tract, it takes thousands of pictures. These pictures are transmitted to a recording device that you wear on your body. Once the capsule has passed through your digestive tract, it is eliminated from your body through a bowel movement.