Capsule endoscopy allows our physicians to visualize the small intestine, an area of the GI tract that cannot be seen with conventional endoscopy and colonoscopy and which can cause bleeding, pain, diarrhea, or other problems. Patients come to our office early in the morning to swallow a pill containing a light, camera, and transmitter. The images sent by the capsule are recorded on a receiver worn on a vest during the day of the test, then downloaded and reviewed by our doctors.

We offer in-office management of symptomatic internal hemorrhoids using the CRH O’Regan System, an outpatient banding system. Most patients require three brief office sessions, each done several weeks apart, to achieve complete relief of symptoms. Before banding is scheduled patients are evaluated in the office to ensure that this procedure is the appropriate treatment for that individual.

Our practice includes physicians who sub-specialize in the care of IBD patients. We have an on-site infusion and injection therapy center where patients can be treated with biologic agents (Remicade, Stelara, Entyvio) in a comfortable setting, with monitoring by a physician and a specially trained nurse. Our physicians are also experienced in the management of other immunosuppressive medications such as 6-mercaptopurine and Imuran (azathioprine).

A colonoscopy is a procedure which allows the physician to look for changes in the large intestine (colon) and rectum. A flexible fiberoptic tube (colonoscope) is passed through the rectum into the lower intestinal tract. This enables the physician to view the lining of the rectum and all parts of the colon. If necessary, polyps or other types of abnormal tissue can be removed through the scope during a colonoscopy. 

To prepare for the procedure, the patient will be given instructions for diet and laxatives which must be followed to ensure that the colon is completely free of stool. The CDC recommends those between 45 and 75 with an average risk of colon cancer get a screening colonoscopy every 10 years. More frequent screenings may be recommended if the patient has higher risk factors, including family history, medical condition and previous history of polyps.

EMR (endoscopic mucosal resection) is a minimally-invasive technique which allows the gastroenterologist to remove large polyps from the colon which would have required surgery in previous years.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) enables the physician to diagnose problems in the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. ERCP may be used to discover the reason for jaundice, upper abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss. ERCP combines the use of x-rays and an endoscope, which is a long, flexible, lighted tube. Through it, the physician can see the inside of the stomach, duodenum, and ducts in the biliary tree and pancreas. 

EUS (endoscopic ultrasound) uses an endoscope modified with an ultrasound probe to produce highly detailed images of the GI system, pancreas, bile duct and gallbladder, as well as lymph nodes and blood vessels outside the GI tract. Biopsies can be obtained with a high degree of accuracy.

We offer specialized testing for patients with reflux, heartburn, and chest discomfort not related to heart problems. BRAVO pH monitoring is done during a conventional endoscopy. By attaching a small sensing device to the lining of the esophagus we can record acid levels for 2 days without the need for a tube or catheter. Manometry involves passing a small catheter down the esophagus and into the stomach. The catheter only needs to stay in place for 15 minutes and is used to measure the strength and coordination of muscle contractions in the esophagus.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a technique which employs highly calibrated heat energy to destroy precancerous tissue in the esophagus, most commonly related to Barrett’s esophagus. RFA is designed to treat flat areas of precancerous tissue and allow for new growth of healthy tissue.

Stent placement is used to bypass obstructions in bile duct, esophagus and colon. Using a combination of endoscopic and Xray techniques, the gastroenterologist can place a small device through a narrowed area; the device expands after it is placed and provides a passageway for fluids or food.

An upper endoscopy, also called Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a diagnostic endoscopic procedure that visualizes the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract down to the duodenum. This procedure enables the physician to look inside the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine). The procedure might be used to discover the reason for swallowing difficulties, nausea, vomiting, reflux, bleeding, indigestion, abdominal pain, or chest pain.