Advanced Gastroenterology and Hepatology (AGH) of Greater Washington provides a variety of endoscopic procedures, including colonoscopy. We strive to offer excellent care, focusing on providing care, comfort, and quality in our comprehensive digestive health care services. Whether you need an exam, a procedure, or simply want to schedule a consultation to talk about your health, we’re here for you. We have two convenient offices — one in Washington DC, and one in Vienna, Virginia — and we provide gastroenterological services at both. You can count on AGH of Greater Washington for all of the services listed below — feel free to click individual links to learn more about our various services, and don’t hesitate to call us if you have questions or if you’d like to schedule an appointment.
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
Esophagogastroduodenoscopies are designed to detect cancer in the upper gastrointestinal tract after surgery. EGDs may be recommended for those who suffer from upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, heartburn, or reflux (GERD) after surgery. The procedure is relatively simple: Your doctor will use an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a microscope at its tip) to gently travel through the esophagus, stomach, and upper intestines. Patients may be given a sedative to make the process relatively pain-free.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a common procedure and it’s recommended for those who are at risk of colon cancer and for those over the age of 50. A colonoscopy is designed to detect cancer and polyps, which are small growths that may become cancerous. During the procedure, your doctor will administer a sedative, and use a colonoscope to view the lining of the large intestine and colon. Patients must prepare for the procedure to ensure that the colon is clean and ready for observation (learn more about colonoscopy preparation by clicking the link). Polyps can be removed and some medication can be administered during a colonoscopy, as necessary.
Capsule endoscopy procedures are painless, and they are designed to assess issues including abdominal pain, intestinal bleeding, polyps, Crohn’s disease, ulcers, and tumors. During the procedure, your doctor will give you a small, pill-sized camera to swallow, which will travel through your gastrointestinal tract as it captures video footage, revealing any visible issues. Patients must wear a specialized belt to record the video. Results may be available in one to two weeks.
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography procedures are designed to examine the bile duct, pancreatic duct, and gallbladder. A specialized endoscope enables your doctor to insert a small, flexible tube, gently travel through the esophagus, stomach, and small intestines to the duct openings. There, a catheter is used to place dye in the pancreatic duct or the bile duct to better examine your organs via X-ray. A sedative or local anesthetic may be recommended or required for the procedure.
Esophageal pH Monitoring (BRAVO)
Esophageal pH Monitoring is a procedure designed to help determine if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), if your surgical treatment for GERD is successful, or if your current GERD medication is effective. During this procedure, and endoscopy will be performed to place a small capsule on the wall of your esophagus. This capsule will measure the pH of your esophagus, transmitting this data through a small receiver that you’ll wear for 24 to 48 hours. Patients are able to go about their day to day normally, even while the capsule is in place.
Advanced Endoscopic Procedures
On top of our standard endoscopic procedures, we offer advanced endoscopic procedures. We can perform Enteroscopies, Esophageal Stenting, Endoscopic Therapies, and Endoscopic Ultrasound procedures. These procedures may further help to examine your gastrointestinal system or may provide you with the treatment necessary for your current conditions. Click the link to learn more about these individual procedures.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
High-quality gastroenterology care starts here. Reach out to us to learn more about our procedures, treatments, and examinations, and what we can do to improve your health. You can schedule an appointment for the care that you need. Again, we serve the greater Washington area from our offices in Washington DC and Vienna, Virginia
The information AGH supplies on this website should not be used as a substitute to your regular physician’s medical advice. Your research from this website should not be used as a medical diagnosis. Consult your regular physician for diagnoses and treatments. The information found on this website is for educational purposes only. A formal consultation with a surgeon or doctor is needed before pursuing surgical procedures or medical treatments. Individual results may vary.
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