Gastroscopy in New Jersey
The Digestive Health & Nutrition Center has two convenient locations in Lawrenceville and Princeton, New Jersey where you can receive the exceptional care you deserve. Angela Merlo, M.D. is an experienced Gastroenterologist and highly skilled in this specialized procedure. Dr. Merlo performs Gastroscopy in adults as well as children in an Ambulatory Surgery Center or outpatient hospital when necessary.
What is Gastroscopy?
Gastroscopy is another name for endoscopy. Gastroscopy is an examination of the upper digestive tract consisting of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum or first part of the small intestine. The procedure involves use of a specialized instrument with a video camera that transmits images to a computer monitor. The procedure when properly performed is safe for adults and well as children of all ages. Dr. Merlo is highly skilled in performing this procedure and in inserting other instruments through the gastroscope to obtain biopsies, resect tumors, dilate strictures or cauterize bleeding.
When is a Gastroscopy Necessary?
Gastroscopy can provide valuable information of potential underlying medical problems in people with a wide array of signs and symptoms such as:
- Abdominal pain
- Anemia
- Difficulty or pain on swallowing
- Gas and bloating
- Indigestion
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
What can Gastroscopy Diagnose?
Gastroscopy when performed with appropriate biopsies can establish the diagnosis of a wide array of conditions such as:
- Acid reflux
- Barrett’s esophagus
- Celiac disease
- Esophageal cancer
- Esophageal motility disorders
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Giardia infection
- Helicobacter pylori infection
- Stomach Cancer
- Ulcers
How do I Prepare for a Gastroscopy?
Preparation is easy. Usually all you need do is have nothing to eat or drink for six hours before your gastroscopy. Dr. Merlo will address your specific medical conditions and provide detailed instructions about what to do about your medications. Most patients request sedation to assure they swallow the instrument without difficulty and feel no discomfort during the test. Speak with Dr. Merlo about any of your concerns. Gastroscopy lasts about 20-minutes during which time Dr. Merlo will carefully inspect all areas and obtain any necessary biopsies to help her accurately diagnose your condition. Vital signs of heart rate, blood pressure and breathing are properly monitored whenever sedation is administered. You cannot drive the remainder of the day when sedation is administered so you must arrange for an adult to accompany you drive you home.
What Happens after a Gastroscopy?
Dr. Merlo will speak to you about her findings before you go home. Most patients leave the center within two hours of their arrival. Our office takes particular attention to provide results of biopsies within the next four business days.
If you are seeking a Gastroenterology expert for your gastroscopy, contact the Digestive Health & Nutrition Center in Lawrenceville or Princeton, New Jersey for an appointment with Dr. Merlo.
