Endoscopy
Advanced testing and treatment for conditions of the digestive tract
Endoscopies at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Needham
Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Needham provides endoscopic procedures in a state-of-the-art unit at the Outpatient Clinical Center on our main campus. Our team has extensive experience, performing over 7,500 diagnostic and treatment endoscopies each year. That means you’re in good hands with us. We provide the care you need in a comfortable, welcoming environment that’s conveniently located close to home.
What is an Endoscopy?
Endoscopy procedures examine the digestive tract from the inside using a thin, flexible tube with a light and tiny camera on the end. Gastroenterologists may perform an endoscopy to help diagnose and treat these or other concerns:
- Barrett’s esophagus, a condition that causes damage to the esophagus (food tube)
- Bleeding in the digestive tract
- Blockages in the digestive tract
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can result from chronic heartburn or acid reflux
- Inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
- Ulcers in the stomach or small intestine
Types of Endoscopy
Gastroenterologists at BID Needham perform two main types of endoscopies: upper endoscopies and lower endoscopies.
In an upper endoscopy, a tube is inserted through the mouth to scan the esophagus, stomach and small intestines. Types of upper endoscopies include:
- Gastroscopies.
- Esophageal banding — Cuts off blood flow to swollen veins in the esophagus to prevent the veins from rupturing.
- Esophageal dilatation — Used to stretch or open a narrowed area of your esophagus.
- Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube exchange — Used to place a feeding tube, allowing you to receive nutrition through your stomach.
- Capsule endoscopy — Uses a pill you swallow to look for bleeding and tumors, mainly in the small intestine. The pill has a tiny camera and a light. It records images of your digestive tract that your doctor can view on a monitor.
In a lower endoscopy, the tube is inserted through the anus to examine the large intestine, colon and rectum. Types of upper endoscopies include:
- Colonoscopies for both testing and treatment.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy allows the doctor to examine the inside of the rectum and most of the large intestine.
What To Expect Before, During & After Your Endoscopy
Your care team will provide details about how to prepare for your procedure and what to expect. Be sure to follow their guidance carefully. Let them know if you have any questions or concerns.
Schedule an Appointment or a Procedure
To make an appointment or to schedule a procedure with Dr. Matthew Sullivan, call 781-453-3688.
To schedule a procedure with Dr. Steven Cohen, Dr. Stephen Rotman, or Dr. Sonal Ullman, and you are between the age of 40 and 80, call the Gastroenterology Department at 781-453-7861; if you are under the age of 40 or over the age of 80, please call Needham Gastroenterology Associates at 781-444-6460 as an office visit is required prior to scheduling your procedure.
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Services & Specialties
Gastroenterologists work with these and other specialties at BID Needham to deliver the care you need.
