PROCEDURES

We currently perform our outpatient procedures at the Harrisburg Endoscopy & Surgery Center. In this state-of-the-art surgical center, our patients are able to have their upper and lower endoscopies in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. Our doctors are also on staff at Pinnacle Health Hospitals and Holy Spirit Hospital.


Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy enables your doctor to examine the lining of your colon (large intestine) for abnormalities. During this examination a thin flexible tube is inserted into the rectum and advanced slowly through the colon. The doctor will be able to detect any abnormalities in the lining of your colon including polyps, tumors, and inflammation. Biopsies of abnormal area may be taken and sent to the laboratory of further evaluation. If polyps are detected they will be removed during the procedure. If a polyp is too large to be removed during the procedure, your doctor will discuss this with you after the procedure. Prior to the exam you will be asked to follow certain dietary restrictions and use a special bowel cleansing preparation. Most medications can be continued as usual. However, it is very important to inform your doctor and the scheduler about medications that you may be taking, particularly aspirin products, arthritis medication, blood thinners, insulin, or iron products. You will need to have a responsible person drive you home after the exam.

EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) or upper endoscopy: An EGD allows your doctor to examine the lining of the upper part of your gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. During this examination a thin flexible tube is inserted through the mouth into the stomach. The doctor will be able to detect inflammation, ulcers, tumors and other upper gastrointestinal abnormalities.


ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatogram): This procedure is used to view the common bile duct. ERCP is used to help locate and treat blockages in the duct. This exam is done in radiology with the use of x-ray equipment. During this exam a narrow scope is placed into your throat and advanced through your upper gastrointestinal tract into the opening of the common bile duct. One of the most common blockages are gallstones. Often they can be removed during ERCP with the use of a catheter that is inserted through the scope. Your stomach needs to be empty for this examination. The scheduler will discuss the preparation with your during your initial visit. Most medications can be continued as usual. However, it is very important to inform your doctor and the scheduler about medications that you may be taking, particularly aspirin products, arthritis medication, blood thinners or insulin. You will need to have a responsible person drive you home after the exam.


Upper GI Series: This is an x-ray test where you will be asked to drink a fluid called barium. Barium shows up easily on the x-ray film. The radiologist will take a series of pictures as you drink the barium and as the barium travels through your digestive tract. This test can detect the presence of ulcers, tumors, strictures, or inflammation. The radiologist will be able to see your esophagus, stomach, and the beginning portion of your small intestine. A report will be sent to your doctor.
Barium enema: A barium enema is an x-ray test in which a special fluid containing barium, which shows up easily in an x-ray, is given through the rectum. Air is used to inflate the colon slightly to better visual all areas of the colon. This test can detect the presence of polyps, tumors, or inflammation. The radiologist will be able to see your rectum and large bowel. A report will be sent to your doctor.

Abdominal Ultrasound: An abdominal ultrasound it is a test where an instrument is placed on your abdomen that emits sound waves. This creates a picture on a screen. Films are then made from this for the radiologist to study. This test can detect masses, stones, obstructions, and other abnormalities. A report will then be sent to the doctor.

Abdominal CT Scan: This is a special type of x-ray that will show much more detail and is done differently than a normal x-ray. There will be some preparation before your test. You will be there one hour before the test is done and you will be asked to drink a solution that tastes like lemonade. You will need to lie flat on a table. This table will move through a doughnut shaped ring that will take several pictures of your abdominal area. By having this test, the doctor will be able to see any abnomralities in the stomach, small bowel liver, and pancreas. You will also be given an injection that will make the blood vessels in the liver and pancreas easier to visualize. At certain times during the test you will need to hold your breath for a few seconds. A report will be sent to the office.

Liver biopsy: A liver biopsy is scheduled to exam liver tissue to diagnosis conditions of the liver including cirrhosis, hepatitis, or tumors. This test is performed at the hospital and is usually performed under CT or ultrasound guidance.



IMPORTANT REMINDER: The above list of procedures is only a partial list of tests which may be ordered by the doctor. The doctor will discuss each test with you. There are brochures available on the tests. A scheduler will discuss the preparation for each test with you. It is very important that you follow the instructions given to you by the scheduler.

Harrisburg Gastroenterology, Ltd. • 4760 Union Deposit Road, Suite 100, Harrisburg, PA 17111
(p) 717.545.9811 • (f) 717.545.1873
© 2006 Harrisburg Gastroenterology, Ltd. All Rights Reserved / ©Stephen Moyer Photography