Digestive Endoscopy
Insurance coverage may vary. Please contact your insurance provider with questions about your coverage.
For referring providers: Access referral resources here.
Digestive endoscopy includes colonoscopy, upper endoscopy (EGD) and other minimally invasive procedures used to evaluate, diagnose and sometimes treat conditions affecting the digestive tract. At Mayo Clinic Health System, specialists use advanced endoscopic imaging and minimally invasive technologies to examine the digestive tract and perform procedures ranging from screening colonoscopy and upper endoscopy to specialized treatments for select digestive conditions.
These procedures may be recommended for colorectal cancer screening, evaluation of digestive symptoms or ongoing monitoring of digestive conditions. During some procedures, specialists can remove polyps or obtain tissue samples for further evaluation.
Whether you're due for a routine screening colonoscopy, need an upper endoscopy to evaluate digestive symptoms or require follow-up care for an existing digestive condition, our team provides expert digestive endoscopy services close to home. Many procedures can be completed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day.
Conditions treated
Digestive endoscopy procedures may be recommended to evaluate symptoms, diagnose digestive conditions and monitor ongoing gastrointestinal health.
Digestive endoscopy procedures may be recommended to evaluate:
- Abdominal pain.
- Abnormal imaging or laboratory findings requiring further evaluation.
- Barrett's esophagus.
- Changes in bowel habits.
- Chronic heartburn and acid reflux.
- Colon polyps.
- Colorectal cancer screening and surveillance.
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).
- Diverticular disease.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
- Gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Iron deficiency anemia and unexplained anemia.
- Inflammation of the digestive tract.
- Positive stool-based colorectal cancer screening tests.
- Stomach ulcers.
Diagnosis & treatment
Digestive endoscopy procedures help specialists diagnose, monitor and treat a wide range of digestive conditions. Using advanced endoscopic technology, providers can evaluate symptoms, investigate abnormal imaging or test results, identify abnormalities and perform certain minimally invasive treatments without traditional surgery.
Procedures and treatments we provide include:
-
Anorectal manometry
Anorectal manometry is a diagnostic test that measures the strength, sensation and coordination of the muscles and nerves involved in bowel movements. It can help identify causes of chronic constipation, difficulty passing stool or loss of bowel control. -
Barrett's esophagus ablation
Barrett's esophagus ablation is a minimally invasive treatment used to remove abnormal tissue in the lining of the esophagus caused by long-term acid reflux. By destroying damaged tissue and allowing healthy tissue to regrow, ablation may help reduce the risk of progression to esophageal cancer.
-
Bravo testing
Bravo testing is a wireless pH monitoring test used to measure acid reflux in the esophagus over several days. A small capsule temporarily attached to the esophagus records acid exposure, helping specialists evaluate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and related symptoms.
-
Capsule endoscopy
Capsule endoscopy uses a small, swallowable capsule with a built-in camera to capture images of the digestive tract, particularly the small intestine. The test helps evaluate areas that may be difficult to examine with traditional endoscopy and can aid in diagnosing digestive conditions and unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding.
-
Cholangioscopy
Cholangioscopy is a specialized endoscopic procedure that allows direct visualization of the bile ducts. It may be used to evaluate abnormalities, investigate narrowing or blockages, obtain tissue samples and help guide treatment of bile duct conditions.
-
Diagnostic colonoscopy
A diagnostic colonoscopy is used to evaluate symptoms such as abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits or unexplained digestive concerns. The procedure allows specialists to examine the colon and rectum to identify the cause of symptoms.
-
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is an advanced procedure used to diagnose and manage conditions affecting the bile and pancreatic ducts. Using a combination of endoscopy and imaging technology, specialists can identify narrowed ducts, remove stones, place stents and perform other treatments during the same procedure.
-
Esophageal manometry
Esophageal manometry is a diagnostic test that measures the strength and coordination of muscle contractions in the esophagus. It helps evaluate how well food moves from the throat to the stomach and can assist in diagnosing swallowing disorders, chest pain and chronic reflux symptoms.
-
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) combines endoscopy and ultrasound technology to create detailed images of the digestive tract and nearby organs, including the pancreas, liver and lymph nodes. EUS may also be used to guide biopsies and help diagnose, stage and monitor digestive diseases and certain cancers.
-
Screening colonoscopy
A screening colonoscopy checks for colon polyps and signs of colon cancer before symptoms develop. It is one of the most effective tools for colorectal cancer prevention because precancerous polyps can often be found and removed during the same procedure.
-
Small bowel enteroscopy
Small bowel enteroscopy is an advanced endoscopic procedure used to examine and treat conditions affecting the small intestine. It can help identify sources of bleeding, evaluate abnormal findings, obtain tissue samples and perform certain treatments without surgery.
-
Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (EGD)
An upper endoscopy, also called an EGD, examines the esophagus, stomach and upper small intestine using a thin, flexible camera. It can help diagnose the cause of heartburn, reflux, difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain and other upper digestive symptoms.
-
Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF)
Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in appropriate patients. Performed without external incisions, cTIF helps restore the body's natural barrier to reflux and may reduce symptoms such as chronic heartburn and regurgitation.
FAQ
-
What is digestive endoscopy?
Digestive endoscopy includes procedures that allow specialists to examine the digestive tract using a thin, flexible tube equipped with a camera. Common digestive endoscopy procedures include colonoscopy and upper endoscopy (EGD). These procedures help diagnose, monitor and sometimes treat digestive conditions.
-
Why would I need a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy may be recommended for routine colorectal cancer screening, evaluation of digestive symptoms, investigation of abnormal findings or ongoing monitoring of digestive conditions. Your healthcare provider can help determine when you should begin screening and how often it should be repeated.
-
At what age should I get a colonoscopy?
Most people should begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45, although screening may begin earlier for people with certain risk factors or a family history of colorectal cancer. Your healthcare provider can recommend the screening schedule that is right for you.
-
What is the difference between a screening colonoscopy and a surveillance colonoscopy?
A screening colonoscopy is recommended for people at average risk of colorectal cancer who do not have symptoms or a history of colon polyps. A surveillance colonoscopy is recommended for people with a history of colon polyps, colorectal cancer or certain digestive conditions. Regular surveillance helps monitor for changes and supports ongoing colorectal cancer prevention.
-
What is an upper endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy, also called an EGD, is a procedure used to examine the esophagus, stomach and upper portion of the small intestine. It may be recommended to evaluate symptoms such as chronic heartburn, GERD, difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain or gastrointestinal bleeding.
-
What if I need a specialized or advanced endoscopic procedure?
In addition to routine colonoscopy and upper endoscopy, specialists may perform advanced digestive endoscopy procedures such as endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), enteroscopy and other minimally invasive treatments. Your care team will determine the most appropriate procedure based on your symptoms, diagnosis and treatment goals.
-
Do I need a consultation before a colonoscopy or upper endoscopy?
Depending on the reason for the procedure and your medical history, you may be able to proceed directly to scheduling or may need an evaluation by a digestive health specialist before your procedure. Your care team will determine the most appropriate pathway for your situation.
-
Can polyps be removed during a colonoscopy?
Yes. Polyps are abnormal growths that can develop in the colon and may become cancerous over time. During a colonoscopy, polyps can often be identified and removed during the same procedure, helping reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
-
What preparation is required for a colonoscopy?
Preparing for a colonoscopy requires cleansing the colon before the procedure. Your healthcare team will provide detailed instructions, including dietary restrictions and bowel preparation requirements.
-
Will I need a biopsy during my procedure?
During an endoscopy or colonoscopy, your provider may collect a small tissue sample, called a biopsy, for laboratory evaluation. Biopsies can help diagnose inflammation, infection, precancerous changes and other digestive conditions.
-
Will I need someone to drive me home?
Many digestive endoscopy procedures involve sedation. Patients are often required to arrange transportation home following the procedure. Your care team will review specific instructions before your appointment.