Vein Clinic:

‑ Ultrasound Evaluation
‑ Sclerotherapy
‑ Mini‑Phlebectomy
‑ Endovenous Laser Therapy


Our Vein Clinic is a state-of-the-art facility providing the latest technological advances in vein treatment, specializing in Endovenous Laser Therapy.


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Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD, Gastroscopy) or endoscopy of the upper gastro-intestinal tract is a procedure which involves using a flexible, fibro optic scope for the examination of the lining of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum (upper part of the small intestine).

The usual indications are:
  • difficulty in swallowing
  • heartburn
  • upper abdominal pain
  • nausea and vomiting

It is an excellent method for finding the cause of bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract and more accurate than an X-ray for detecting inflammation, ulcers or other lesions of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.

Usually you should fast for 6 hours before the procedure and no other preparation required.

Before the procedure local anesthetic is used as a gargle and spray to the back of your throat. Additionally an intravenous sedative medication may be used as well.

The endoscope is passed through your mouth and you can usually feel it at the back of your throat. It may be a little uncomfortable but does not interfere with your breathing. Sometimes, we need to take small tissue samples (biopsies) for further examination at the laboratory. The examination usually takes 5-10 minutes and you will be discharged soon after.

If sedative medication was given you are not allowed to drive or operate machinery for 24 hours.

This procedure generally is well tolerated and very safe. Complications a very rare, however they may occur. They include perforation (tear) of the esophageal, stomach or duodenal wall lining or bleeding from the biopsy site. Sometimes an operation might be required to correct the problem. Blood transfusions are rarely indicated. A reaction to the sedative medication and local irritation to the vein can occur as well.


It is important to contact your surgeon or a family doctor if you notice:
  • difficulty swallowing, worsening throat pain, chest pains, severe abdominal pain, fever, chills or significant rectal bleeding.
Alexander Matz M.D., , Office: (902) 742-7333, (902) 742-3542 Ext. 511, Fax: (902) 742-7365