WCH Endoscopy

The Bravo™ pH monitoring system is a state-of-the-art noninvasive test that utilizes wireless technology to measure pH (acid) levels in the esophagus and to evaluate symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) such as heartburn. Higher levels of pH indicate the presence of acid reflux.

Using an endoscope, a gastroenterologist will attach a capsule to the wall of the esophagus. After the procedure, for 48-96 hours, the capsule will record pH levels in the esophagus and wirelessly transmit this information to a recording device you wear on your waist. When the test is complete, you will return the waist-worn recorder to your doctor so he or she can analyze the results.

After a few more days, the capsule will automatically detach and pass through your digestive tract to be eliminated with a bowel movement.

PillCam™ is the standard of care for diagnosing disorders of the small intestine. This procedure allows your gastroenterologist to examine the small intestine for problems such as Crohn's disease, intestinal bleeding, and iron deficiency anemia.

The capsule, which you swallow, contains a tiny camera and light that takes thousands of pictures of your small intestine as it passes through the digestive tract. These images are wirelessly transmitted to a recording device you wear on your body for eight hours. After this time, you will return the recorder to your doctor so he or she can analyze the results.

Within a day or two, the capsule will be eliminated with a bowel movement.

An upper endoscopy is a nonsurgical procedure used to view the upper GI tract: esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (upper end of the small intestine). It may be performed to diagnose and treat a number of gastrointestinal conditions, obtain a biopsy of abnormal tissue, and remove polyps or obstructions.

A gastroenterologist might do an upper endoscopy to determine the cause of symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, bleeding, swallowing difficulties, gastric reflux, anemia, or unexplained weight loss.

A colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure that is used to detect changes or abnormalities in the large intestine (colon) and rectum. A screening colonoscopy is performed proactively to check for the presence of polyps in the colon, while a diagnostic colonoscopy is performed to evaluate symptoms of gastrointestinal problems such as rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, change in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss. Learn more about colonoscopy.