Bayou Surgical Specialists has extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of serious digestive system disorders. Determining the appropriate plan of care often starts with an endoscopy. By building a foundation for treatment with the most advanced exploratory techniques available, we ensure that our patients receive the highest possible quality of care.
Endoscopy is a procedure that uses a highly specialized camera to visually evaluate concerns throughout the digestive tract, which describes the complex system of organs from the mouth to the anus. Depending on what part of the digestive system is being examined, an endoscopy may or may not be surgical. These procedures provide valuable insight into symptoms that may raise concerns for GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), cancer or precancerous abnormalities.
An EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is a non-surgical procedure where a specialized endoscope is inserted through the mouth. Often called an upper endoscopy, an EGD enables your physician to evaluate your esophagus, stomach and the uppermost part of the small intestine. An EGD may be recommended in response to certain symptoms, such as vomiting, difficulty swallowing or abdominal pain. The procedure is performed under light sedation.
A colonoscopy uses a different endoscope to examine and treat a patient’s rectum and colon. The National Institutes of Health recommends that patients start regular colonoscopies at age 50. Based on your personal and family history, however, you may need to start screening at an earlier age.
Bayou Surgical Specialists offers removal of polyps during a colonoscopy. In the event that we do find polyps, colon obstruction or evidence of other disorders, we may recommend further examination or a course of treatment.
We will thoroughly advise you on how to prepare for a colonoscopy or EGD, as well as self-care after the procedure. The sedatives used during nonsurgical endoscopies take time to wear off, so it’s unsafe to drive for 24 hours afterward.
At Bayou Surgical Specialists, our goal is exceptional care for every patient. Our practice is crafted around keeping you well and getting you back to the life you love. We provide highly specialized diagnostics to empower you to make healthcare decisions. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.