Endoscopy / Gastroenterology

GI ENDOSCOPY

GI Endoscopy is one of the most exciting fields of clinical medicine. It provides accurate diagnostic information and enables the doctor to provide therapy through the endoscope for intestinal disorders. Endoscopic procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis, as it is least invasive, safer than many other therapeutic approaches and a favorable cost-benefit ratio. Advanced therapeutic procedures, such as ERCPs (to examine the biliary tree and pancreas) and EUS (endoscopic ultrasound for staging cancer) are performed in the hospital by our Gastroenterologists. Most gastroscopies and colonoscopies can be performed in either of our two state-of-the-art Endo Surgi Centers/Our practice is accredited by JCAHO and certified by the American Medical Association. The Endo Surgi Centers are Medicare certified and the facility in Union is JCAHO accredited.

GASTROENTEROLOGIST

A Gastroenterologist is a doctor specifically trained in the field of gastroenterology, endoscopy and hepatobiliary diseases. Our physicians at the Center for Digestive Diseases are Board Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology. The breadth of their knowledge covers the vast range of diseases of the digestive system. The digestive system includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts and large colon. Additionally, diagnosis and management of diseases of the liver such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and auto-immune diseases such as chronic colitis and Crohn's disease.

The doctors' in-depth knowledge of gastrointestinal diseases enables them to perform diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy. Endoscopic procedures are performed through a flexible lighted instrument which is capable of inspecting the lining of the digestive tract. A complete gastrointestinal evaluation usually includes a thorough interview, physical examination, plan of care and various treatment options.

Along with cancer screening, we also perform the following diagnostic procedures:

• Colonoscopy
• Gastroscopy (EGD)
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
• Liver Biopsy
• ERCP
• Endoscopic Ultrasound
• Esophageal Manometry
• 24 pH Monitor for Acid Reflux
• Esophageal Dilation
• Breath Test for H-pylori
• Breath Test for Diarrhea
• Hepatitus Diagnosis and Intervention

Following one of the above procedures, therapeutic intervention may be needed on a continuous or short term basis. Our gastroenterologists' extensive experience and knowledge enable them to provide the necessary care provided.