Upper and Lower Endoscopy Surgery

Food or other objects can be swallowed and impact the esophagus, causing difficulty in breathing and swallowing or can lead to a tear in the esophagus. See a doctor immediately for a physical examination. Additional imaging and an endoscopic evaluation may be necessary.

Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is an abnormal connection between the esophagus and the windpipe. Esophageal atresia (EA) occurs when the upper part of the esophagus does not connect with the lower esophagus and stomach. These normally occur together at birth, and a surgical procedure is necessary soon after birth.

Intestinal atresia is a blockage in the intestines, most commonly the bowel. This diagnosis is often found during prenatal ultrasounds. Once the child is born, an X-ray, upper and lower GI series and abdominal ultrasound will confirm the diagnosis. The child will then have to undergo a surgical procedure.

A colonoscopy examines the inside of your large intestine, or colon, and is common for middle-aged adults to diagnose gastrointestinal diseases. This procedure takes about 15-30 minutes, and the patient will remain in the recovery area for 30-40 minutes. If anything abnormal or of concern is found, your doctor will follow up with you on next steps.

Gastroschisis is a birth defect that develops in a baby where an opening forms in the abdominal wall, and the bowel pushes through and grows outside of the baby’s body. This can lead to the bowel becoming swollen or damaged. An ultrasound, MRI and fetal echocardiogram can be used to confirm the diagnosis, and the child must undergo surgery after birth.

Short bowel/gut syndrome occurs when a large portion of the intestine does not work normally. It is most common when a large portion of the intestine has been surgically removed or when a baby is born with an abnormally short intestine. Symptoms can include poor weight gain or loss, bloating, poor appetite, increased gas, foul-smelling stool, fatigue, vomiting or pale-looking skin. Minor cases will normally be treated with a specific diet and treatment for vitamin deficiency and anemia. In extreme cases, surgery may be necessary.