Gastroenterology

What is Gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology is the study of the normal function and diseases of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts and liver. It involves a detailed understanding of the normal action (physiology) of the gastrointestinal organs, including the movement of material through the stomach and intestine (motility), the digestion and absorption of nutrients into the body, removal of waste from the system, and the function of the liver as a digestive organ. It includes common and important conditions such as colon polyps and cancer, hepatitis, gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn), peptic ulcer disease, colitis, gallbladder and biliary tract disease, nutritional problems, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and pancreatitis. In essence, all normal activity and disease of the digestive organs are part of the study of Gastroenterology.

Learn about colon screenings

What is a Gastroenterologist?

A Gastroenterologist is a physician with dedicated training and unique experience in the management of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and liver.

PillCam or SmartPill Diagnostics

This innovative, simple, and noninvasive procedure is performed in the office and allows our physicians to visualize the entire small intestine. About the size of a multi-vitamin, the PillCam contains a tiny camera and light source. The capsule is ingested and travels through the GI tract taking as many as 6 high-resolution pictures per second. This detailed imaging allows the physician to evaluate conditions such as Crohn’s disease and to look for sources of bleeding in the GI tract.

For patients with gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal pain and chronic constipation, we also offer the SmartPill. This is the latest cutting-edge technology in whole gut motility testing, and it is also conveniently performed in the office. The SmartPill is ingested and collects pH, temperature and pressure measurements as it travels through the stomach, small intestine and colon. This detailed information allows the physician to evaluate for motility disorders affecting specific parts of the GI tract. The physician can then use this information to customize therapy that addresses your specific condition. There is no need for sedation with either of these patient-friendly procedures, so you are free to go about your normal activities once you leave the office.

Contact us today to learn more about PillCam or SmartPill diagnostics!