Generality: These are commonly done tests. At your Primary Care Physician's discretion, you may need to undergo an EGD. This is a test performed to identify abnormalities of the upper portion of the digestive tract (esophagus, stomach, and duodenum). A colonoscopy is a procedure done to identify any abnormality in the lower portion of the digestive tract (colon and rectum).
Anesthesia: Intravenous sedation.
Type of procedure: The EGD is accomplished by inserting a flexible tune about 3/8" thick through the mouth into the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. A light is shined inside the organs together with air to improve the visibility. If necessary, pictures and biopsy of the lining of the colon (mucosa) are obtained with special foreseps. The colonoscopy is carried out with a similar but longer instrument inserted through the rectum into the entire large bowel (colon). The colon can be up to five feet long. Similarly to the EGD, light and insufflated air allow to inspect the inside of the colon. Biopsy of the colon mucosa are obtained as necessary.
Recovery Time: About one hour.
Postoperative Pain: From none to minimal and of very short duration (minutes).