Which Tests can be Utilized to Detect and Treat Esophageal Disorders?

In the event you or a loved one develop an issue with your esophagus, it is essential to assess the concern so that the proper diagnosis and treatment protocol can be conducted. You may be wondering, how does that happen? At Adult Gastroenterology Associates, our gastroenterology physicians conduct certain types of tests to identify esophageal concerns that may be affecting your health and wellness. Do not allow an esophageal issue to continue to negatively affect your quality of life. To learn more about the evaluations and treatments for esophageal conditions in Tulsa, OK, request an appointment with one of our gastroenterology specialists. Read below to explore how the various tests work.

When is an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) recommended?

An esophagogastroduodenoscopy, often simply called an EGD, is a test that is conducted to assess the upper part of the digestive tract. Also referred to as an upper endoscopy procedure, it involves a miniaturized camera fitted on the end of the endoscope, or tube.

To begin the procedure, the endoscope is gently positioned down through your throat to help our physicians see the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The camera transmits the images that are captured to a computer screen so that our gastroenterologists can study them. Once the pictures are evaluated, our experts can render a diagnosis and suggest the appropriate treatment plan optimal for you. An EGD procedure may be advised if you’ve had the following symptoms:

• Anemia
• Functional indigestion (dyspepsia)
• Abdominal pain
• Heartburn
• Non-cardiac chest pain
• Recurrent acid reflux
• Vomiting blood
• Ongoing nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss

Our highly trained team at Adult Gastroenterology Associates can offer further information about this approach and if it can benefit your health.

How does a CT scan identify and treat esophageal issues?

A diagnostic CT or computed tomography scan is a helpful tool for your digestive health physician when it comes to esophageal disorders. CT scans often function as the primary step when assessing the esophagus. As radiographic procedures, CTs generate a clear image of the area. Once taken, these images are then provided to your doctor, who assesses them and can explain the steps to follow to help ease your esophageal concern.

Our Tulsa, OK gastroenterology specialists may recommend a CT exam to render an accurate diagnosis of esophageal issues. CT scans can assist with:

• Detecting inflammation or irritation
• Detecting the presence of esophageal cancer
• Detecting irregularities in the esophagus
• Detecting if esophageal cancer has spread

When would a barium x-ray be recommended?

Your gastroenterologists may order a barium x-ray if a radiographic evaluation of your GI tract is ideal. These procedures are often used to identify health concerns, such as polyps, tumors, hernias, ulcers, strictures, and inflammatory conditions.

The barium used in this exam is a white, dry chalky powder. The barium powder is combined with liquid, enabling it to be swallowed. When it has been ingested, the solution will line the inner lining of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. The clarity of the barium liquid allows our digestive health specialists to examine for irregularities that might not be identified when conventional x-rays are conducted.

There are several forms of barium x-ray procedures in use. These include a barium enema to look at the lower gastrointestinal tract, a small-bowel follow-through (SMFT), and a barium swallow to visualize the upper digestive tract. If you or a family member think you may be a candidate for an esophageal evaluation, request an appointment with our team without delay.

Find advanced esophageal treatment in Tulsa, OK

If you need care for esophageal concerns, you can rely on the experts at Adult Gastroenterology Associates. Our staff will work closely with you to tailor a treatment protocol that targets your condition. Contact us now to request a consultation with one of our esophageal specialists in Tulsa, OK. We look forward to helping you identify the solutions you need.