Services > Hospital > Endoscopy / Colonoscopy

In the recently expanded and refurbished Endoscopy Unit, gastroenterologists are able to view the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract and perform screening, diagnosis or treatment of a range of diseases. The Endoscopy Unit consists of two suites for procedures and an area for preparation and recovery.

Upper Endoscopy

Upper endoscopy studies are used to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the esophagus and stomach, such as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), hiatal hernias or stomach ulcers. Through the use of an endoscope -- a long, thin, flexible tube with a tiny video camera and light on the end -- the gastroenterologist can safely guide the instrument to carefully examine the inside lining of the upper digestive system.

Colonoscopy

During this procedure a miniature camera is inserted into the colon allows the gastroenterologist to view the entire colon to screen for cancer. The doctor can, if necessary, remove polyps during the procedure, which can prevent or even cure colon cancer.

Gastroenterologists usually perform these procedures under anesthesia on an outpatient basis.