Colonoscopy & Upper Endoscopy (EGD) in Port Charlotte
Screening & diagnostic colonoscopy
A colonoscopy uses a thin, flexible camera to examine the lining of the large intestine (colon and rectum). The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommend that adults at average risk begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45; you may need to start earlier based on family history, symptoms, or other risk factors. During the exam, precancerous polyps can be removed before they turn into cancer.
Dr. Guarino performs colonoscopies on an outpatient basis with comfortable sedation at Murdock Surgery Center.
Upper endoscopy (EGD) & feeding tube placement
An upper endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy, or EGD) examines the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum to evaluate acid reflux (GERD), difficulty swallowing, upper abdominal pain, anemia, or ulcers. Dr. Guarino also performs feeding tube placement (percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, or PEG) for patients who cannot get enough nutrition by mouth.
EGD with biopsies is also how Barrett’s esophagus is found and followed. Dr. Guarino performs Barrett’s esophagus surveillance endoscopy, and TissueCypher® risk testing may be recommended on biopsy tissue already taken during your EGD.
If you are being checked for acid reflux (GERD), Dr. Guarino may add MiVu™ mucosal integrity testing to your EGD. A small sensor cap on the scope tip takes a few readings of the esophageal lining in a few minutes, with no multi-day capsule to wear. Bravo™ pH monitoring or other testing may still be needed in some cases, and insurance coverage varies.
Patient information download
Download the SAGES Colonoscopy Patient Information Brochure (PDF) or our Colorectal Cancer Awareness Guide (PDF) to learn more about preparation, benefits, and what to expect.
Where your procedure is performed
Dr. Guarino performs procedures on an outpatient (same-day) basis at Murdock Surgery Center. Consultations and follow-up visits take place at the Charlotte Harbor Surgical office in Port Charlotte.
We care for patients from Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, North Port, Englewood and across Charlotte County and Southwest Florida.
Frequently asked questions
At what age should I get my first screening colonoscopy?
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommend that adults at average risk begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. You may need to start earlier, or be checked more often, if you have a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or certain inherited conditions. Screening decisions after age 75 are made individually with your doctor.
Is colonoscopy the only way to screen for colon cancer?
No. Stool-based tests and other exams are also recommended screening options. Colonoscopy is the only one that lets the doctor find and remove polyps during the same exam, and an abnormal result on any other screening test should be followed by a colonoscopy.
What is the difference between a screening and a diagnostic colonoscopy?
A screening colonoscopy is done when you have no symptoms. A diagnostic colonoscopy is done to look for the cause of symptoms such as bleeding or a change in bowel habits, or to follow up an abnormal test. Insurance may cover the two differently, so our office can help you check your benefits.
Will I be asleep during my colonoscopy?
You receive sedation so you are comfortable, and most patients remember little or nothing of the exam. Because of the sedation, you need an adult to drive you home and should not drive for the rest of the day.
How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?
You follow a bowel prep the day before (or two days before) so the colon is clean. Our office gives you written step-by-step 1-day or 2-day prep instructions, a clear-liquid diet list and guidance on which medications to pause.
What is an upper endoscopy (EGD)?
EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) uses a thin, flexible camera passed through the mouth to look at the lining of the esophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine. Small tissue samples (biopsies) can be taken during the exam.
Why might I need an EGD?
Common reasons include heartburn or reflux that does not get better with medicine, trouble or pain swallowing, food sticking, upper abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, unexplained anemia, and evaluation before reflux or hiatal hernia surgery.
Do I need a bowel prep for an EGD?
No. For an EGD alone you only need an empty stomach, so you will be told not to eat or drink for a period of time before the procedure. If you are having a colonoscopy at the same time, you will also follow the colonoscopy prep.
Can I have an EGD and a colonoscopy on the same day?
In many cases, yes. When both are needed they can often be done one after the other during the same sedation.
What is recovery like after an EGD?
Most people feel a mild sore throat or some bloating for a short time. You need a driver because of the sedation, and most people return to normal activities the next day.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Guarino
Call Charlotte Harbor Surgical in Port Charlotte. Mon–Thu 7:30 am–4:00 pm, Fri 7:30 am–12:00 noon.