Allegheny Regional Endoscopy, accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, is a state of the art facility licensed in the State of Pennsylvania as an Ambulatory Surgical Facility specializing in endoscopic procedures (EGD and Colonoscopy).

What is an Upper Endoscopy (EGD)?

Upper endoscopy enables the gastroenterologist to look inside the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine).  Upper endoscopy is also called EGD, which stands for esophagogastroduodenoscopy.  The procedure can be performed to determine the reason for swallowing difficulties, nausea, vomiting, reflux, bleeding, indigestion, abdominal pain or chest pain.

For the procedure the patient will swallow a thin, flexible, lighted tube called an endoscope (or "scope").  Routinely, a short-acting sedative is given (by a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist - CRNA) to make the individual comfortable during the procedure.  The endoscope transmits an image of the inside of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum so that the physician can carefully examine the lining of these organs.  The scope can also put air into the stomach; this expands the folds of tissue and makes it easier for the physician to examine the stomach.  The air can be removed with the scope or will be naturally expelled.

What is a colonoscopy (COLO)?

A colonoscopy allows the gastroenterologist to look inside the entire large intestine.  The procedure enables the gastroenterologist to see things such as inflamed tissue, abnormal growths and ulcers.  It also permits the physician to biopsy tissue and to remove polyps.  It is most often used to look for early signs of cancer in the colon and rectum.  It is also used to look for causes of unexplained changes in bowel habits and to evaluate symptoms such as abdominal pain, rectal bleeding and weight loss.

For the colonoscopy, you will lie on their left side on the examining table.  You will be given a moderate sedative by a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) to keep you comfortable and help you relax during the exam.  The physician and CRNA will monitor your vital signs, observe for any signs of discomfort, and make any adjustments as needed.

The physician will insert a flexible, lighted tube into your rectum and slowly guide it into your colon.  The tube is called a colonoscope ("scope").  The scope transmits an image of the inside of the colon onto a video screen so that the physician can carefully examine the lining of the colon.  The scope bends so that the physician can move it around the natural curves of the colon.  The scope  places air into your colon and inflates it, which helps give the physician a better view.  Most patients may not remember the procedure afterwards due to the effects of the sedative.

Abnormal growths, such as polyps can be removed during the procedure.  Polyps are removed using tiny tools (forceps) passed through the scope.  Most polyps are not cancerous, but they could turn into cancer.  Polyps or biopsy of any tissue will be sent for analysis by a pathologist.

What to Expect Prior to Your Procedure?

  • You will be given a written schedule of how to adjust your medications prior to the procedure;
  • You will be advised to wear comfortable clothing;
  • You will be instructed not to wear any jewelry;
  • You will be asked to have a driver
    • NOTE:  Blair Senior Services cannot transport a patient home without someone accompanying them;
  • You will receive diet, medication instructions and/or restrictions and prep instructions.

Day of Procedure:

  • Your stay will last approximately 1.5 hours;
  • A licensed CRNA will sedate you for the procedure.  The sedation will be provided at an adequate level to keep you as comfortable as possible;
  • Recovery time following the procedure will be brief;  and you will be fully awake when you leave our facility;
  • You will receive complete discharge instructions prior to leaving our facility.

When Will I Find Out My Results? 

  • The physician will meet with you following the procedure to review your findings;
  • You will receive a copy of the operative report at the time of discharge;
  • You will be notified of the results of any biopsies taken within 7-10 days;
  •  A copy of the report will be forwarded to your Primary Care Physician.