Endoscopy

Colonoscopies and upper endoscopies can’t allow doctors to see the small intestine very well. Capsule endoscopy is able to take detailed pictures of the small intestine. It can help discover possible causes of bleeding, anemia or diarrhea.

Capsule endoscopies are small tablets (like a pill) that you swallow and pass in your stool. As the capsule travels through the body, it takes detailed pictures of the small intestine.

Colonoscopies are used to look at the lower part of your digestive tract. Our gastroenterologists use a colonoscope (a thin, flexible fiber optic tube) to view the inside of your colon and large intestine.

Esophageal dilation is a procedure used to “widen” the esophagus. Certain conditions can cause the esophagus to narrow, such as chronic acid-reflux, tumors or hiatal hernias.

Patients are given a spray or gargle to numb the throat so they don’t feel discomfort during the procedure. Then, a provider guides a tube down the throat to widen the esophagus.

Liver biopsies help our gastroenterology and digestive health specialists diagnose liver conditions, such as cancer and hepatitis.

A liver biopsy involves taking a small sample of your liver for testing. Our specialists use a small needle, guided by an ultrasound, to collect the sample.

Paracentesis is a procedure used to drain fluid that builds up in the abdominal cavity. This is often caused by conditions like cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), kidney problems or even cancer.

Our specialists use a needle to drain fluid from the abdomen. Some of this fluid may be kept for testing.

Upper endoscopies are used to look at the upper gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus (throat), stomach and duodenum (the part of the small intestine that connects to the stomach). Our specialists use this procedure to detect ulcers, signs of inflammation or even growths.

During an upper endoscopy, you are given medicine to help you sleep so you remain comfortable. Your provider guides a camera down your throat and into your stomach.

If You Are Taking Medication

• Stop taking any Pepto Bismol or Iron Supplements.
• Stop taking weekly doses of GLP-1 agonists (Wegovy, Ozempic, Trulicity, Saxenda, Mounjaro, etc.).
  • Note: If you take a daily dose of GLP-1 agonist, you may continue until the day of your procedure.

Prepare Your Ride Home

• You may not drive yourself home after sedation.
• A responsible adult must come to the procedure area to drive you home when you are ready for discharge. You must provide their name and phone number upon check-in. If you cannot provide this information, your procedure may be delayed.
• Public transportation such as taxi, bus, Uber, or Lyft is not allowed.

At Midnight

• Food: Stop eating all solid food. No hard candy or gum.
• Liquids: You may drink clear liquids for up to four hours before your procedure.
  • Clear liquids include:
    • Water
    • Light-colored sodas
    • Tea or coffee — black only (no cream or non-dairy creamers of any kind)
    • Clear juices — white grape, apple and cranberry (with no red/purple dye)
    • Broth and bouillon
    • Jell-O (no red)
    • Popsicles (no red)
  • Clear liquids do NOT include:
    • Solid food
    • Gum or hard candy
    • Drinks with red dye
    • Dairy products
    • Juice with pulp

4 Hours Before Your Scheduled Procedure Time

• Fluids: Stop drinking all fluids.
• Food: Do not take anything by mouth (food, drink, candy, or gum).
• Medication:
  • You may take any usual morning medications with a small sip of water.
  • If you have diabetes or take blood thinners, please follow your doctor’s advice regarding any changes to your medications that may be needed.
  • If you take GLP-1 agonists (Wegovy, Ozempic, Trulicity, Saxenda, Mounjaro, etc.):
    • Daily Dosing – Do not take your GLP-1 medication on the day of the procedure.
    • Weekly Dosing – Do not take your GLP-1 medication 1 week prior to procedure.

• Do not drive.
• Avoid going to work or school.
• Avoid making important decisions.
• Avoid providing care for children.

You may resume all activities the next day unless otherwise instructed.