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Upper Endoscopy vs. Colonoscopy: Key Differences Explained

posted: Dec. 24, 2024.

Endoscope-for-Colonoscopy-or-Upper-Endoscopy

Your gastrointestinal system has several organs that work together, such as your stomach, spleen, intestines, and liver. Therefore, if you have issues with either part of your system, you may need to undergo different diagnostic tests, such as an endoscopy or colonoscopy. When you need an upper endoscopy in Honolulu, HI, visit Dr. Stephen's office for the most efficient and caring service.

How Does Endoscopy Differ From Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a test that focuses specifically on your large intestine and rectum. When you undergo this procedure, you will be under general anesthesia, and your doctor will insert a tube with a camera attached to your rectum and move this tube throughout your intestines. Viewing the inside of your colon allows the doctor to check for growths known as polyps and other possible diseased tissue. 

If your doctor spots polyps, they can remove them during the colonoscopy. However, if the growths are too large, the doctor can mark them with blue dye to remove them later during a more invasive procedure. It's essential for checking for signs of colon cancer and other lower digestive problems. When caught in its early stages, colon cancer has a high survival rate.

However, an endoscopy examines the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine. While your doctor uses a tube with a camera attached, this time, it’s inserted through your mouth and goes down your esophagus. This procedure allows your doctor to view the upper digestive tract for signs of problems such as ulcers, tumors, and esophageal disorders like Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

When Do You Need This Procedure?

An upper endoscopy in Honolulu, HI, and a colonoscopy are procedures for showing symptoms of unexplained weight loss or changes in bowel habits, such as chronic constipation and diarrhea. If you have rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, one of these procedures can get to the root cause. 

However, an endoscopy is a must for people with persistent heartburn or acid reflux. This procedure can also check for why you may have difficulty swallowing or persistent abdominal pain and discomfort.

When you visit Dr. Buto’s office for an endoscopic procedure, you are in good hands with a qualified professional. Proper digestion is essential for a good quality of life, as it allows you to receive and process nutrients. To learn more about an upper endoscopy in Honolulu, HI, call 808-524-7676 today.

Tags: Colonoscopy,  Upper Endoscopy
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Stephen K. Buto, M.D.

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Patient Testimonials

Patient Testimonials

  • "Thank you very much for your efficient and professional caring to take care of my colon health."
    A.K.
  • "Thank you so much for taking the time to meet with me to address my concerns and to perform the procedures. Your warm bedside manner and compassion were greatly appreciated! I am very thankful to have someone so thorough investigating my symptoms. Thank you!!!"
    E.I.
  • "Many thanks for a job well done. It was a huge relief going through the ordeal. Your easy going, soft sell of the procedure was a big help. It helped to put things in perspective and allowed me to be less apprehensive. Your efficient team worked swiftly and well. We are fortunate to have such up-to-date facilities and trained staff. We are very fortunate to have such fine medical care."
    R.L.
  • "Thank you for the extra special care you gave my dad during his recent gall bladder episode. My family and I truly appreciate your attention to dad’s case, your kindness, compassion, thoroughness, being there in the middle of the night, communication with the family, and just the heart with which you serve. I wish there were more doctors like you. God bless and keep you and your family."
    L.N.S.
  • "I can’t thank you enough for the extraordinary effort you went through to help me reach a conclusive diagnosis. You went over and beyond any expectation, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the time and effort. My mind is at ease that I had the expertise of you and your colleagues to help me."
    J.T.
  • "Thank you for service above and beyond on a long Saturday afternoon, when my husband was in so much pain. It was very comforting to know that you were just a phone call away. We needed your instructions and advice, and it kept him from a hospital stay."
    C.S.
  • "Thank you for your wonderful expertise and care."
    J.H.
  • "It has been one week since my first colonoscopy. Thank you so much that the entire process and procedure went so smoothly. The time and effort in providing a thorough pre-consultation and explanation relieved me of my anxiety and concerns. The communication and follow through by your office was very helpful and appreciated! I sincerely appreciate your kind attention and excellent medical care in the successful accomplishment of my procedure"
    J.S.
  • "Thank you so much for your attentive and thorough care. I appreciate your acknowledging my anxiety over the anesthesia. And your attempt to alleviate it. It worked beautifully!!!"
    J.I.
  • "I have had my second procedure with Dr. Buto and Dr. Leong in 10 years. They and their staff were the most professional and courteous people that I have ever met. Everything was explained to me as to what was going to happen for prep, the procedure and after the procedure. I would highly recommend Dr. Buto, Dr. Leong and their staff."
    J.M.