A specially configured esophageal-gastric tube can be inserted into a patient's esophagus with the tip of the tube in the region of an end-to-end anaotomosis connection. The joined members are occluded upstream and downstream of the anastomosis connection. Fluid is pumped into the occluded section through the esophageal-gastric tube until a desired pressure level is attained. The anastomosis connection then is checked for leaks. The invention also includes a bougie having an end portion made of a material suitable for resisting electro-cauterization temperatures.