Endoscopy

We perform thousands of screenings, diagnostic and treatment endoscopy procedures each year at Atrium Health Floyd and Harbin Clinic. Our state-of-the-art endoscopy suites are equipped with leading-edge technologies to support safe and quality care. The Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care recognizes us as an excellent endoscopy center, and we’re committed to going above and beyond for you.

What is endoscopy?

Endoscopy is any procedure that involves using a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light on the end (an endoscope). Your provider guides the endoscope through the food pipe (esophagus) or rectum to view various parts of your digestive system. Our specialists assess areas such as the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum. Then, they deliver treatment as needed.

Endoscopy uses and benefits

Endoscopy helps diagnose and treat a wide range of digestive diseases. Endoscopic techniques are minimally invasive and often help people avoid more serious surgery.

Diagnostic endoscopy procedures

We offer many diagnostic endoscopy procedures, such as:

• Capsule endoscopy (PillCam^®), a camera in a small, pill-like capsule, taken by mouth, that takes pictures as it moves through the digestive tract
• Colonoscopy, a procedure to look inside the colon and rectum
• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), a combination of endoscopy and ultrasound imaging to view the digestive tract and nearby structures
• Esophageal pH monitoring, a test to check the acidity level in the esophagus
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy, a procedure to look at the lower part of the colon and rectum
• Hydrogen breath testing, a breath test that checks the amount of bacteria in the small intestine
• Upper endoscopy, also called esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), a test that examines the esophagus, stomach and upper part of the small intestine

Interventional endoscopy procedures

Interventional endoscopy combines screening or diagnostic procedures with treatment. Your provider can take tissue samples or do other minor surgical procedures while examining your digestive tract. You benefit from quicker treatment and recovery, plus a lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgery.

Common interventional endoscopy procedures include:

• Endoscopic hemorrhoid treatment, to target and shrink hemorrhoids
• Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), to remove abnormal or precancerous tissue
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), to treat bile duct and pancreatic duct issues
• Esophageal stent placement, to widen a narrowed or blocked food tube
• EUS with fine needle aspiration, to remove a small tissue sample from the digestive tract
• Percutaneous endoscopic gastronomy (PEG tube), to place a feeding tube
• Radiofrequency ablation therapy (Barrx HALO), to remove abnormal or precancerous tissue using heat

Preparing for an endoscopy

Your provider will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for your type of endoscopy. Following all instructions is critical in achieving the best overall health outcome.

Your preparation will affect how clearly your provider can see your digestive system. It can also affect your risk during the procedure.

You may need to stop taking certain medications in the days leading up to the procedure. Tell your provider about any medications you usually take. You may also need to stop eating and drinking at a certain time before the procedure.

What to expect with endoscopy

Most endoscopies are done as outpatient procedures, meaning you go home the same day. You receive moderate or deep sedation, depending on the procedure, to keep you as safe and as comfortable as possible. We may provide general anesthesia for high-risk or complex endoscopies.

You must plan for someone age 18 or older to drive you home after the endoscopy. Your driver must arrive with you and remain in the waiting room until you are in the recovery room.

Your provider will discuss the results of your procedure or treatment with you. Together, you’ll decide on any follow-up needed.

Endoscopy testing risks and side effects

After an endoscopy, you may experience temporary soreness or discomfort in the area where we inserted the endoscope. You may also feel groggy, nauseous or bloated.

Endoscopy risks range from bleeding and infection to low blood pressure and low oxygen levels. Rare complications are also possible, such as a tear in the digestive tract lining (perforation).

However, endoscopic procedures are generally safe and cause less risk than traditional surgery. Talk with your provider about possible risks and side effects of your specific procedure.