What is an endoscopy?
An endoscopy is a way of looking inside of the body by inserting a flexible, thin tube, equipped with a camera. This helps our surgeons evaluate symptoms, look for possible ulcers, take biopsies, (for example, H. Pylori, a stomach bacteria that causes ulcers) evaluate for reflux, and other endoscopic procedures. Expect to arrive 60 minutes before the endoscopy and to be here 30-60 minutes after the endoscopy for recovery.
Why have an endoscopy at GHP?
GHP Endoscopy Center specializes in the examination of the upper part of your gastrointestinal tract. Our bariatric surgeons’ extensive background and years of experience gives them the skill and knowledge they need to make this process as smooth as possible. With our qualified staff who specialized in bariatric surgery, we will provide you with the finest care possible.
EGD Instructions
- Nothing to eat or drink 6 hours prior to the procedure
- Please arrive 60 minutes prior to your procedure
- You must have a driver and they need to stay with you for the entire visit or the procedure cannot be performed. You CANNOT take a cab or Uber driver home.
- Arrange for a responsible adult to remain with you, at home, for 12 hours after your procedure
- If you are of child-bearing age, you will be asked to give a urine sample for a pregnancy test
- The procedure can take anywhere from 15-30 minutes to complete
- You may return to work the following day
Medications
- DO NOT take your morning medications on the day of your procedure with the exception of:
- beta blockers for your blood pressure (for example; metoprolol, atenolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol, labetalol)– take your beta blocker as your usually would but with just a sip of water
- If you take the following medications: Pradaxa, Xarelto, Eliquis– STOP 2 days prior to your endoscopy
- If you take the following medications: Coumadin, Brilinta, Effient, Plavix, Imbruvica– STOP 5 days prior to your endoscopy
PLEASE DISCUSS THE ABOVE WITH YOUR PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN BEFORE STOPPING THESE MEDICATIONS.
Pre-Op
- Evaluate for possible complications
- Allows the surgeon to view the stomach prior to surgery
- Look for potential hiatal hernias
- Screening for H. Pylori
Post-op
- Evaluate results to see what troubles you
- Set up further appointments and testing if needed
- Screening of Barrett’s esophagus
- Evaluation of previous stomach surgeries
Billing Information
Using the GHP Endoscopy Center can mean lower out of pocket costs for you! We do participate with most insurance companies, please contact our billing specialists at 616-464-4619 if you have any questions regarding the billing process.