Endoscopies are non-surgical procedures designed to examine, diagnose, and treat gastroenterological conditions from the inside, using a flexible tube with a light source and camera attached.
Endoscopies performed at Durham Regional Hospital include:
- Upper endoscopies: Examine the upper digestive tract which includes the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine (duodenum)
- Colonoscopies: Examine the large colon and rectum
The majority of our patients do not require general anesthesia but are given conscious sedation. Treatment is usually performed on an outpatient basis, and average procedures take no more than three hours.
The specialized team of endoscopy nurses and technicians will guide you through the process during your visit and provide detailed, procedure-specific discharge instructions.
Conditions that can benefit from endoscopies include:
- Stomach pain
- Ulcers
- Difficulty swallowing
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Reflux
- Polyps/cancer
Physicians
Physicians offering this service include: