Procedures & Services

What It Is

A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows the physician to examine the entire length of the colon and rectum using a thin, flexible tube with a camera. It is both a diagnostic tool and a preventive procedure, as polyps can be detected and removed during the same visit.

Why It Is Done

Colonoscopy is used for colon cancer screening, evaluation of rectal bleeding, investigation of changes in bowel habits, and follow-up after prior polyp removal.

What to Expect

The procedure is performed under sedation and typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. Patients are monitored in recovery before being discharged home with a responsible adult. Most patients feel comfortable the same day.

What It Is

An upper endoscopy, also called an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), allows the physician to examine the esophagus, stomach, and upper portion of the small intestine using a thin, flexible scope with a camera.

Why It Is Done

This procedure is used to evaluate symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, heartburn, abdominal pain, nausea, and bleeding in the upper digestive tract.

What to Expect

The procedure is performed under sedation and typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. Patients are monitored in recovery before going home. Mild throat soreness may occur temporarily afterward.

What It Is

Hemorrhoid banding (rubber band ligation) is a minimally invasive in-office procedure used to treat internal hemorrhoids. A small rubber band is placed at the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply so it shrinks and falls away.

Why It Is Done

This procedure is recommended for internal hemorrhoids that cause bleeding, discomfort, or prolapse that has not responded to conservative management.

What to Expect

The procedure is typically performed in the office without sedation and takes only a few minutes. Mild discomfort or pressure may occur afterward. Patients can generally return to normal activities the same day.

What It Is

Capsule endoscopy involves swallowing a small, vitamin-sized capsule containing a miniature camera that captures thousands of images as it travels naturally through the digestive tract. This allows Dr. Pudhota to visualize areas of the small intestine that cannot be reached with standard scopes.

Why It Is Done

This procedure is used to evaluate unexplained GI bleeding, suspected Crohn's disease of the small bowel, small intestinal tumors or polyps, and other conditions affecting the small intestine.

What to Expect

After swallowing the capsule with water, you will wear a small recording device around your waist for the duration of the study. The capsule passes naturally within 24 to 48 hours. No sedation is required, and most patients go about their normal day during the study.

What It Is

An EGD with Bravo combines a standard upper endoscopy with the placement of a small, wireless pH capsule in the esophagus. The capsule measures acid levels over 48 to 96 hours and transmits data wirelessly to a recorder worn by the patient, then detaches and passes naturally.

Why It Is Done

This study is used to confirm or rule out gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), assess the effectiveness of acid-suppression therapy, and investigate unexplained chest pain or swallowing difficulties.

What to Expect

The EGD portion is performed under sedation, just like a standard upper endoscopy. After the capsule is placed, you will wear a small recorder for 48 to 96 hours and keep a diary of symptoms and meals. The capsule detaches on its own and passes naturally.

What It Is

Esophageal manometry is a diagnostic test that measures the strength, coordination, and timing of the muscle contractions in the esophagus, as well as how well the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes when swallowing. A thin, flexible catheter is gently passed through the nose into the esophagus to record pressure readings as the patient swallows small sips of water.

Why It Is Done

This study is used to evaluate difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), unexplained chest pain not related to the heart, suspected esophageal motility disorders such as achalasia or esophageal spasm, and to assess esophageal function before anti-reflux surgery.

What to Expect

The test typically takes 30 to 45 minutes and is performed without sedation so that swallowing can be measured accurately. Patients sit upright while the catheter is placed, and a numbing spray is used to make the nasal passage comfortable. Most patients tolerate the test well and can return to normal activities immediately afterward.

What It Is

Anorectal manometry is a diagnostic test that measures the strength, coordination, and reflexes of the muscles in the rectum and anal sphincters. A small, flexible catheter with a balloon at its tip is gently placed into the rectum, and pressure readings are recorded as the patient performs simple bearing-down and squeezing maneuvers.

Why It Is Done

This study is used to evaluate chronic constipation that has not responded to treatment, fecal incontinence, suspected pelvic floor dysfunction, and to assess rectal sensation and anal sphincter function before certain procedures.

What to Expect

The test typically takes 30 to 45 minutes and is performed in the office without sedation. Patients lie on their side while the catheter is placed, and a small balloon is briefly inflated to assess sensation and reflexes. The procedure is generally well tolerated, and patients can return to normal activities immediately afterward.

What It Is

Colon cancer screening is one of the most important preventive health measures available to adults. When colorectal cancer is detected early, it is highly treatable. Colonoscopy is the gold standard for screening and can prevent cancer by removing precancerous polyps.

Why It Is Done

Screening is recommended beginning at age 45 for average-risk adults. Those with a personal or family history of colon cancer or polyps may need to begin screening earlier or have more frequent evaluations.

What to Expect

A screening colonoscopy is generally a comfortable, straightforward procedure performed under sedation. You will receive comprehensive guidance on preparation and what to expect.

What It Is

When digestive symptoms are new, worsening, or unexplained, a thorough GI evaluation helps identify the cause and guide effective treatment. Dr. Pudhota takes a careful, systematic approach to evaluating each patient's unique presentation.

Why It Is Done

This service is appropriate for symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, changes in bowel habits, unexpected weight loss, or other digestive concerns.

What to Expect

After a detailed history and physical examination, Dr. Pudhota will recommend appropriate diagnostic testing or procedures as needed.

What It Is

Chronic digestive conditions require ongoing expert care. Dr. Pudhota partners with patients to manage conditions such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, GERD, IBS, celiac disease, and liver conditions over the long term.

Why It Is Done

Long-term management focuses on controlling symptoms, preventing complications, optimizing quality of life, and providing patient education for better self-management.

What to Expect

Treatment plans are individualized and may include medication management, dietary guidance, endoscopic surveillance, and coordination with other members of your care team.

What It Is

Telemedicine visits allow patients to meet with Dr. Pudhota virtually through a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform, from the comfort of home or any convenient location. It is a flexible option for patients who do not need an in-person examination or procedure at that visit.

Why It Is Done

Telemedicine is appropriate for follow-up visits, review of test or laboratory results, medication management, and consultations for established patients when an in-office visit is not required.

What to Expect

You will receive a secure link to join your visit. A smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone is all that is needed. Visits are conducted through a HIPAA-compliant platform to protect your privacy.