Upper Endoscopy Specialist
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Robert M. Webman, MD
Primary Care Physician & Gastroenterologist located in Torrance, CA & San Pedro, CA
Gastroenterologist and internist Dr. Robert Webman, MD, earned his medical degree from the University of Massachusetts and completed further training in internal medicine and gastroenterology at California Pacific Medical Center, Good Samaritan Hospital, and Tulane University. He is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Webman speaks English and Spanish, accepts most major insurance.
Upper Endoscopy Q & A
What Is an Upper Endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy is a procedure to help diagnose problems in your throat or esophagus, stomach, and first portion of the small intestine. The doctor uses an endoscope, which is a long, thin, flexible tube with a light at the end of it. Using upper endoscopy can help you avoid the need for exploratory surgery. In addition to diagnosing possible problems, the doctor can perform minor procedures during an endoscopy. Examples include taking biopsies, removing polyps, and treating bleeding.
Why Might the Doctor Recommend an Upper Endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy can help diagnose and better understand a variety of problems. They include the following.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
- Barrett’s esophagus.
- Hiatal hernia.
- Cancers.
- Ulcer.
These are additional reasons to have an upper endoscopy.
- Determine the reason for an infection or unexplained bleeding.
- Figure out why you are having trouble swallowing or have abdominal bloating.
- Follow-up after surgery in the stomach area.
- Discover the reason why you are vomiting blood.
- See whether your stomach ulcers are healing as they should.
What Should I Expect During My Procedure?
To prepare for your upper endoscopy, you need to fast for at least 6 to 8 hours before the test. Your doctor may have you stop taking aspirin and iron supplements a couple weeks before the test. The test is done using a local anesthetic for your throat so you cannot feel the tube going down your throat. You will also receive pain medication and a sedative through an IV. The doctor slides the tube down your esophagus and looks at your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, or upper portion of your small intestine.
The procedure itself takes less than an hour. You should be allowed to go home 1 to 2 hours after your procedure. You will need a ride home, since you cannot drive after being on sedated, and you may not be able to operate machinery for another 12 or more hours. You can eat and drink after your throat is no longer numb.
Major Insurance Providers Accepted
We accept most PPO insurance plans. Below is a short list of the plans we accept. Please call our office with any questions.
Words from our patients
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"I've been dealing with Dr. Webman during my mom's current hospitalization. He listens, answers questions and has kept me in the loop through the whole process."
