What We Offer
Our Services
Comprehensive gastrointestinal care at transparent, all-inclusive prices. No insurance required.
Screening & Diagnostic Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows Dr. Earl to examine the entire lining of your large intestine (colon) using a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope with a high-definition camera. Whether you're coming in for a routine screening or because you have symptoms, we've got you covered.
Screening Colonoscopy
A screening colonoscopy is a preventive exam for people with no symptoms. Its purpose is to find and remove polyps before they can turn into cancer — or to detect colorectal cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage.
Why it matters
- • The American Cancer Society recommends screening starting at age 45
- • Colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S.
- • Over 90% of cases are treatable if detected early
- • Polyps can be removed during the procedure — stopping cancer before it starts
What to expect
- • Performed under sedation — you won't feel a thing
- • Procedure takes about 30 minutes
- • If polyps are found, they're removed on the spot
- • Biopsy results (if any) within days
- • Resume normal activities the next day
Who needs one: All adults ages 45 and older, even if you feel perfectly healthy and have no family history. If you have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) who was diagnosed with colorectal cancer or advanced polyps before age 60, screening is typically recommended beginning at age 40 — or 10 years before the age at which your relative was diagnosed, whichever comes first.
Diagnostic Colonoscopy
A diagnostic colonoscopy is performed when you have symptoms that need investigation. The goal is to find the cause of your symptoms and, if anything is found, to treat it.
What it detects
- • Polyps and early signs of colorectal cancer
- • Sources of rectal bleeding or blood in stool
- • Inflamed tissue — colitis, Crohn's disease
- • Ulcers and sources of chronic bleeding
- • Diverticulosis (pouches in the colon wall)
- • Causes of chronic diarrhea or constipation
What to expect
- • Same procedure as screening — sedation, 30 minutes
- • Polyps and abnormal tissue removed or biopsied
- • Dr. Earl discusses findings with you same day
- • Pathology results within days if biopsies are taken
- • Follow-up plan discussed before you leave
Who needs one: Anyone experiencing rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits (lasting more than a few days), persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, narrow stools, or anemia. Also if you had a positive at-home screening test like Cologuard or FIT.
Screening vs. Diagnostic at a Glance
Screening Colonoscopy
- • No symptoms — preventive
- • Recommended at age 45+
- • Find & remove polyps before they become cancer
- • Usually covered by insurance (if insured)
Diagnostic Colonoscopy
- • Symptoms present — investigative
- • Any age if symptoms warrant
- • Find the cause of your symptoms
- • Often not fully covered by insurance
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
An upper endoscopy — also called an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) — allows Dr. Earl to examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine (duodenum) using a thin, flexible endoscope with a camera.
What it detects
- • GERD and acid reflux damage
- • Stomach and duodenal ulcers
- • Inflammation of the esophagus or stomach
- • Causes of difficulty swallowing
- • Celiac disease (via biopsy)
- • Sources of GI bleeding or anemia
What to expect
- • Performed under sedation — comfortable and painless
- • Procedure takes 15-30 minutes
- • No bowel prep required — just fasting
- • Mild sore throat possible afterward
- • Results discussed same day
Who needs one: Anyone experiencing persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, nausea, upper abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or anemia.
Colonoscopy + EGD Combo
Get both procedures done in a single visit under one sedation. This comprehensive approach examines your entire GI tract — from top to bottom — in about an hour. Ideal for patients who need a thorough evaluation of both upper and lower gastrointestinal symptoms.
Benefits of combining
- • One sedation, one recovery period
- • One bowel prep for both procedures
- • Complete picture of your digestive health
- • More convenient — one visit instead of two
Common reasons
- • Unexplained anemia with GI symptoms
- • Persistent abdominal pain of unknown cause
- • Both upper and lower GI symptoms present
- • Comprehensive screening at age 45+
Not Sure Which Service You Need?
Schedule a free phone consultation and Dr. Earl will help determine the right procedure for you.
Call (913) 379-3350