Endoscopy &Colonoscopy

Upper endoscopy (EGD — esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is a procedure to examine the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine using a thin flexible tube with a camera. It is used to evaluate symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, persistent nausea, or upper abdominal pain, and to investigate findings on prior imaging. Polyps can be biopsied or removed during the procedure, and treatments can be applied directly (such as for bleeding ulcers or strictures).

Colonoscopy examines the entire colon using a flexible camera. It's the primary screening tool for colorectal cancer, lets us remove polyps before they become cancer, and is used to evaluate symptoms like rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, persistent abdominal pain, or anemia. Polyps and small lesions can be removed during the procedure. See our dedicated AI-assisted colonoscopy page for the most advanced screening option available.

Current guidelines from the American Cancer Society recommend most adults begin regular colon cancer screening at age 45. Earlier and more frequent screening is recommended if you have a personal or family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or certain genetic conditions. Louisiana has one of the highest colorectal cancer rates in the country, which makes timely screening especially important.

Talk to your surgeon if you have persistent reflux not controlled by medication, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, persistent upper abdominal pain, recurrent vomiting, evidence of GI bleeding (vomiting blood, black stools), or follow-up needs from a prior endoscopy (such as Barrett's esophagus surveillance).

Colonoscopy prep includes a clear-liquid diet the day before and a bowel-preparation regimen the evening before. See our complete colonoscopy prep instructions for the full timeline and supply list. Upper endoscopy prep is simpler — typically fasting after midnight the night before. We'll send specific instructions when your procedure is scheduled.

Both upper endoscopy and colonoscopy are performed under sedation — you will not feel or remember the procedure. Most patients describe the experience as a brief nap. You'll need a driver to take you home and should plan a low-key rest of the day; you'll be back to normal activity the next morning.

Screening colonoscopies are generally covered at 100% by Medicare, Medicaid, and most commercial insurance plans when performed at an in-network facility. Diagnostic procedures (those evaluating specific symptoms) and upper endoscopies are typically covered with standard cost-sharing depending on your plan. Our billing team verifies benefits before every procedure.