Diagnostic Endoscopy for Preoperative Evaluation and Planning

Working through the endoscope, the esophagus and stomach will be evaluated and a pH testing capsule is placed, as needed. The capsule, which passes on its own, measures the amount of acid exposure within the esophagus over the next couple of days. The camera provides a direct view of the esophagus and stomach. This supports surgical preoperative planning and evaluation for a hiatal hernia.

The results of your pH capsule study will then be read by your surgeon and discussed with you in detail at your follow-up appointment.

The conversation before the day establishes the reason for the evaluation and whether pH testing may be needed.

Medication instructions, sedation planning, and aftercare guidance are provided in advance.

Endoscopy cannot repair a hiatal hernia or rebuild a failing valve. It cannot treat a motility disorder, which is diagnosed with manometry rather than with a camera. A pH capsule is used when acid exposure needs to be measured.

Knowing what a tool cannot do is what keeps it from being used badly. Where a mechanical problem is the cause, the discussion moves to a mechanical solution rather than a repeated look.

The procedure itself is short. You will come with an empty stomach. The procedure is performed under anesthesia. The anesthesia team will discuss expected comfort, awareness, recovery, and risks with you. You will need someone to drive you home after the procedure.

I will discuss all findings with you in our follow-up visit in the office.

This page is educational information, not medical advice. What is right for you is decided in consultation, after a review of your history, your symptoms, and your testing.