Whether you’re experiencing unexplained abdominal pain, persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, or changes in your bowel habits, it’s important to get to the root of the problem. That’s where specialized gastrointestinal testing comes in. These procedures allow doctors to see inside your digestive tract, providing critical insights that help diagnose conditions such as acid reflux, ulcers, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and even certain cancers.
At Newtown Gastroenterology, we’re experts in advanced GI testing. Our board-certified gastroenterologists bring over 60 years of combined experience, using state-of-the-art technology to deliver accurate diagnoses with minimal discomfort. Additionally, we are certified by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF) to perform in-office testing that meets the highest safety standards.
Don’t let digestive symptoms go unchecked. Request an appointment today with one of our expert gastroenterologists and get the answers you deserve.
An upper endoscopy can be a crucial step in identifying the cause of persistent digestive symptoms like:
Also known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), this procedure allows your doctor to examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine (duodenum) with a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope. The endoscope has a tiny camera at its tip, providing clear, real-time images to help diagnose and treat various digestive conditions.
In addition to diagnosing digestive issues, an upper endoscopy can also be used to treat certain conditions. For example, it can be used to remove polyps, dilate narrowed areas of the esophagus, or stop bleeding in the digestive tract, all without the need for invasive surgery. Our advanced equipment and techniques allow for precise intervention, reducing recovery time and improving outcomes.
We’ll provide detailed instructions before your procedure, including guidelines on fasting and managing medications. Be sure to discuss your full medical history with your doctor, including any allergies or prior reactions to sedation.
At Newtown Gastroenterology, we specialize in performing upper endoscopies under light sedation. The procedure is typically quick, lasting about 15-30 minutes, and is done with precision, safety, and patient comfort in mind.
During the procedure, your doctor will gently insert the thin endoscope through your mouth and guide it down your esophagus. The endoscope has a small camera that transmits real-time images to a monitor, allowing your doctor to examine the digestive tract closely.
A capsule endoscopy involves swallowing a small, pill-sized camera that travels through your digestive system, capturing thousands of high-resolution images along the way. These images help your doctor detect issues like bleeding, inflammation, ulcers, tumors, and signs of conditions such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease.
At Newtown Gastroenterology, we’re proud to offer state-of-the-art capsule endoscopy services as part of our comprehensive approach to digestive health. This non-invasive procedure is typically done after other diagnostic tests have been inconclusive or if an upper endoscopy is not possible.
To ensure clear images, you’ll receive specific instructions on how to prepare. This usually includes fasting for at least 12 hours before the procedure to keep your digestive tract clear. In some cases, your doctor may also recommend adjustments to your usual medication dosages, as well.
While capsule endoscopy is generally well-tolerated, it may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or those unable to swallow the capsule. Our team will review your medical history and discuss any concerns before scheduling the procedure.
The procedure is simple and painless. After a brief consultation, you’ll swallow the capsule with water—just like taking a regular pill. As it naturally moves through your digestive tract, the capsule’s miniature camera takes continuous images, which are transmitted to a small recording device you’ll wear around your waist.
You’ll go about your day as usual and then return to our office to have the recording device removed. The images captured by the capsule will be downloaded and analyzed by your doctor to identify any abnormalities. The capsule will pass naturally through your digestive system and will be expelled during a bowel movement, usually within a few days. There’s no need to retrieve the capsule; it’s disposable.
Anorectal manometry is a specialized diagnostic test used to evaluate the function of the muscles and nerves in the rectum and anus, which play a crucial role in bowel movements. This test is commonly recommended for patients experiencing chronic constipation, fecal incontinence, or other unexplained bowel symptoms. By measuring muscle strength, coordination, and nerve reflexes, anorectal manometry helps identify underlying conditions that affect your ability to control bowel movements effectively.
At Newtown Gastroenterology, our expert team uses state-of-the-art technology to perform anorectal manometry with precision and care. This test provides valuable insights into how well the muscles in your pelvic floor are functioning, helping to diagnose conditions such as chronic constipation, fecal incontinence, anal sphincter dysfunction, and pelvic floor dyssynergia (impaired muscle coordination).
Before the procedure, you’ll receive specific instructions from our team, which may include fasting and using a mild enema to clear the rectum. It’s important to follow the preparation guidelines provided to ensure accurate results.
The procedure is minimally invasive, relatively quick, and typically takes about 30 minutes. During the test, a thin, flexible tube with a small, balloon-like sensor at the tip is gently inserted into the rectum. This tube measures pressure, muscle contractions, and reflexes while you perform simple tasks like squeezing, relaxing, pushing, and coughing. The test is generally well-tolerated, and no sedation is required, allowing you to return to your regular activities shortly after the procedure.
Your doctor will determine the most appropriate test based on your symptoms, medical history, and previous diagnostic results. If you're experiencing persistent digestive discomfort, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained weight loss, a specialized test can help identify the underlying cause and guide your treatment.
Some tests, like upper endoscopy, require light sedation to ensure comfort, while others, like capsule endoscopy and anorectal manometry, do not require anesthesia. Your doctor will explain what to expect before your procedure.
After your test, your doctor will review the results and discuss next steps. Some results, like those from an upper endoscopy, may be available the same day, while others, such as capsule endoscopy or breath tests, require additional time for full analysis.
Scheduling your consultation at Newtown Gastroenterology is simple and convenient. We offer flexible appointments, online scheduling, and multiple locations to make quality GI care more accessible. We look forward to seeing you!