Colonoscopy
A camera exam of the colon and rectum — the gold standard for colon cancer screening.
A physician guides a thin, flexible tube with a camera (a colonoscope) through the colon to examine its lining. Polyps can usually be removed during the same procedure.
Patients are typically sedated, and the exam itself often takes under an hour. The day before involves a bowel prep — follow the exact instructions your care team gives you, not general advice found online.
Because of sedation, you will normally need someone to drive you home.
The official site, digestiveaz.com, has a dedicated Colonoscopy page.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
A look at the esophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine.
Also called esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) or panendoscopy. A thin scope passes through the mouth to examine the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.
It is used to investigate reflux, swallowing problems, ulcers, bleeding and other upper GI symptoms, and biopsies can be taken during the exam.
You will usually be asked not to eat or drink for several hours beforehand. Your care team will give you specific instructions.
The official site, digestiveaz.com, has a dedicated Upper Endoscopy (EGD) page.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
A shorter exam of the rectum and lower part of the large intestine.
Similar to a colonoscopy, but it examines only the rectum and the lower (sigmoid) part of the colon. It is generally quicker and may need a lighter prep.
Your physician will explain whether a sigmoidoscopy or a full colonoscopy is the right choice for you.
The official site, digestiveaz.com, has a dedicated Flexible Sigmoidoscopy page.
About prep instructions: bowel prep and fasting rules differ between patients
and medications. Always follow the written instructions the practice gives you, and call
(480) 563-5757 if anything is unclear.