Gastroenterology

Our gastroenterologists provide complete care for the GI tract, the system of organs that work together to digest food. Organs in the GI tract include the esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, small intestine, large intestine and anus.

Heartburn is a very common condition affecting the GI tract, and one that most people experience at some point. However, chronic heartburn can be a symptom of acid reflux or, in more severe cases, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). A potentially serious complication of GERD happens when the lining of the esophagus changes to resemble tissue lining the intestines, increasing the risk of esophageal cancer, a condition called Barrett's esophagus.

Similarly, children who experience persistent stomach aches may be dealing with GERD, and we offer a full range of pediatric gastroenterology services to help restore your child’s digestive health.

GERD treatments

Our hospitals provide effective treatment for GERD, including several types of bariatric surgery.

We also treat Barrett's esophagus with a procedure called radiofrequency ablation (RFA). This procedure destroys damaged cells with heat, while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue.

Our GI specialists screen for, diagnose and treat a variety of gastrointestinal cancers. We offer unique treatment and use state-of-the-art equipment to serve the special needs of each patient and create personalized care plans. If you are concerned about a possible diagnosis, it is important to note the potential risk factors for GI cancer.

Risk factors for GI cancer

Certain factors may increase the risk for GI cancers, such as:

• Being age 55 years old and older
• Certain medical conditions or infections:
  • Common variable immune deficiency (CVID)
  • Gastric atrophy
  • Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori) bacterial infection
  • Hepatitis B or hepatitis C virus
  • Pernicious anemia
  • Untreated GERD
• Diet high in meat, salt, fat, smoked foods and pickled vegetables
• Diet low in fruits and vegetables
• Family history of gastrointestinal cancers
• Lack of exercise
• Obesity
• Previous stomach surgery
• Smoking

Diagnostic services for GI cancer

Once you come in to see us about a potential diagnosis, we will use advanced imaging tests and diagnostic procedures to provide an accurate diagnosis. Our suite of diagnostic services include:

• Biopsy
• Blood test
• Computerized tomography (CT) scan
• Digital rectal scan
• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)
• Upper endoscopy
• Upper GI series

GI cancer treatments

Our surgical oncologists have specialized knowledge of rare, unusual and complex cancer types, and apply a variety of treatments for these disorders. Some of our GI cancer treatments include:

• Chemoembolization
• Radiation therapy
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Radiosurgery