What is an Endoscopy
An upper endoscopy is a procedure that enables your physician to examine the lining of the upper GI tract that includes the throat, esophagus, stomach, and beginning of the small intestine (duodenum). Endoscopy is typically done to diagnose and treat conditions of the upper GI tract such as nausea, abdominal pain or GI bleeding.
The instrument is known as an endoscope and it is a flexible tube about the thickness of a pencil. There is a light source and camera on the end of the endoscope; the image is projected onto a video screen. While the patient is sedated, the endoscope is inserted into the mouth and advanced to the duodenum. Biopsies (tissue samples) can be obtained and treatment of active bleeding can be done. The procedure takes about 10-15 minutes. Intravenous medication is administered during the endoscopy to ensure a painless experience.
Will I be comfortable during my endoscopy?
Yes, your comfort is a very high priority during an endoscopy with San Francisco Gastroenterology. You should not feel any pain during your procedure. We understand that one of the most common reasons that patients avoid endoscopy is because of the fear of an unpleasant experience.
The sedation medication that we utilize is known as Propofol. Propofol will guarantee that you are appropriately sedated during the procedure. Unlike traditional methods of sedation, Propofol ensures that you will not “wake up” in the middle of the procedure which may cause you unnecessary pain or discomfort.
San Francisco Gastroenterology is affiliated with several state-of-the-art colonoscopy & endoscopy centers, all conveniently located in the San Francisco Bay Area, including the Center for Colonoscopy Excellence. Your GI doctor will decide which endoscopy center is best suited for your procedure(s) depending upon the complexity of your medical situation and your insurance. All Bay Area centers offer the latest in equipment and technology and provide excellent nursing and staff services.
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