Welcome to the TGH Florida Endoscopy & Surgery Center, specializing in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of gastrointestinal disorders and diseases. Our providers are dedicated to ensuring the best possible outcomes before, during and after your procedure. Our multidisciplinary team is committed to providing a safe and relaxed environment that meets all your endoscopy needs.
Endoscopic procedures are performed with an endoscope, or tiny camera. These procedures are minimally invasive and virtually pain-free.
Upper Endoscopy is a procedure that examines conditions affecting the digestive system, including the esophagus and duodenum (small intestine).
The procedure is also used to investigate symptoms of digestive problems, such as nausea, difficulty swallowing, gastrointestinal bleeding and vomiting. If your doctor collects samples, or biopsies, they can be used to test for a variety of conditions, including bleeding, diarrhea and cancers of the digestive system.
Our doctors might also use the endoscope to treat problems within the digestive system by passing special tools through the endoscope. This minimally invasive procedure can be used to treat issues with the digestive system, remove a polyp or foreign object, widen the esophagus or prevent bleeding.
Lower Endoscopy is more commonly known as a colonoscopy, a screening test for colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends a routine colonoscopy starting at age 45 and then every 10 years following. It is recommended to begin screening earlier or get screened more often if you experience the following symptoms or criteria:
- Intestinal symptoms that warrant further examination, such as blood in your stool
- Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- History of inflammatory bowel disease
A colonoscopy lasts approximately 30 to 60 minutes. The procedure is performed with a scope, a tiny camera with a light at the tip that is flexible and able to reach regions of the colon. If a biopsy is performed and tissues and/or polyps are removed, they will be sent to a lab for examination.
For patient safety, upon admission we must confirm:
- You have a caregiver to stay with you for 24 hours after your procedure.
- You have a responsible adult driver for transportation home. Transportation does not include ride share service, taxi service or public transportation.
We will be unable to complete your procedure if you do not have a ride home and a responsible adult to care for you after your procedure.