Endoscopy Specialist

What is an endoscopy?

An endoscopy is a non-surgical procedure used to examine your esophagus or digestive tract.

Traditional endoscopy uses an endoscope, a skinny, flexible tube with a light and camera on the end. The camera allows Dr. Baker to see your esophagus, stomach, and the upper part of your small intestine by displaying real-time pictures on a digital monitor. 

Dr. Baker uses the information gathered during an endoscopy to diagnose specific digestive problems and develop custom treatment plans.

What are the types of endoscopy?

At Gastroenterology Specialists of Orlando, Dr. Baker offers several types of endoscopy.

Capsule endoscopy

If Dr. Baker suspects you have Crohn’s disease or another problem that affects the small bowel, he might recommend capsule endoscopy. During this type of screening, you swallow a small, jelly bean-sized capsule that contains a camera. It travels through your digestive tract, transmitting data to a recorder belt that you wear up to 12 hours. 

During a capsule endoscopy, you can go to work and perform other routine tasks. Once the capsule makes its way through your small intestine, you pass it in a bowel movement. The capsule is disposable and safe to flush down the toilet. 

Following your capsule endoscopy, you return the recorder belt to Dr. Baker. 

Upper endoscopy

If you regularly experience heartburn, upper abdominal pain, or difficulty swallowing, Dr. Baker might recommend an upper endoscopy. This procedure requires general anesthesia. Once you’re asleep, Dr. Baker carefully inserts an endoscope into your mouth and down your esophagus.

The endoscope has a small camera and light on the end, which Dr. Baker uses to detect inflammation, ulcers, tumors, and other abnormalities. 

If necessary, Dr. Baker can also take a biopsy. A biopsy is a tissue sample that helps Dr. Baker distinguish between benign and cancerous tissue.

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)

An EGD is another diagnostic screening procedure that uses an endoscope. It’s unique because it helps Dr. Baker visualize the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine, called the duodenum. 

Dr. Baker may recommend an EGD if you’re vomiting blood, experiencing unexplained weight loss, or have unexplained anemia. 

This procedure occurs under general anesthesia, ensuring you experience no pain. EGDs are quick and usually last between 5-20 minutes.

What type of endoscopy is right for me?

Only a qualified gastroenterologist like Dr. Baker can determine the type of endoscopy that will most benefit you. Following a review of your medical history, a physical exam, and a discussion of your symptoms and lifestyle, Dr. Baker can make recommendations that align with your individual needs.

To learn more about the benefits of endoscopy, schedule an appointment at Gastroenterology Specialists of Orlando. Call the office or book a consultation online today.