Endoscopy is a minimally invasive, diagnostic medical procedure that is used to examine the inside of an organ in the body. This includes the esophagus, stomach and colon. Using a piece of equipment known as an endoscope, a physician can directly look at specific areas to better evaluate or to detect problems.
The East Alabama Health Endoscopy Department performs approximately 40 procedures a day. Our five procedure rooms house state-of-the-art equipment. Our medical staff includes seven endoscopists, and our clinical staff is made of critical care nurses, all of whom are credentialed in the administration of moderate sedation. The Endoscopy Department is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care to all patients.
What procedures are performed in our Endoscopy department?
The East Alabama Health Endoscopy Department performs many different procedures, including:
- Diagnostic and therapeutic gastrointestinal procedures on an elective or emergent basis
- Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
- Colonoscopy
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Esophageal motility testing
- Endoscopic radiofrequency ablation therapy
We also offer interventions, as needed, such as:
- Biopsy
- Polypectomy
- Hemostasis
- Sclerotherapy
- Stent Insertion
- Dilation
- PEG Placement
- Foreign Body Removal
The Day of the Procedure
The East Alabama Health Endoscopy Department opens at 7 a.m., Monday – Friday. Most patients are asked to arrive an hour before their scheduled procedure time. This time is used to prepare you for your procedure. Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes. Endoscopy patients enter the hospital through The Surgery Center, located near the back of the hospital (canopy 6).
Important Information About the Ride Home
A family member or designated driver must be present and remain during your stay at the hospital (2-3 hours). After the procedure, you may experience temporary side effects which can include drowsiness, soreness, and forgetfulness. It is very important that you arrange for transportation home. The procedure cannot be performed if you do not have someone to drive you home.
After You Are Home
You should follow your doctor’s instructions concerning medication and rest. An instruction sheet will be sent home with you, outlining things to watch for and any special instructions. If you have any problems, you should contact your physician.
Parking
You may park in The Surgery Center parking lot in the rear of the hospital. At discharge, you will be transported to the patient pick-up area in the rear of the hospital, near the entrance to The Surgery Center.
Contact Us
For questions or for more information about our services, call the Endoscopy Unit at 334-528-1183.