Gastroenterology

• Achalasia, dysphasia and other swallowing disorders
• Barrett’s esophagus
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Crohn’s disease and colitis
• Colon cancer
• Colon polyps
• Diverticulosis and diverticulitis
• Esophageal cancer
• Gallbladder and biliary tract disease
• Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
• Hepatitis and liver diseases
• Heartburn and acid reflux
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Pancreatitis
• Pancreatic cancer
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Rectal bleeding
• Ulcerative colitis

The team at our gastroenterology clinic includes radiologists, oncologists, surgeons, primary care providers and a team of dedicated nurses. Our mission is to prevent digestive disorders as well as treat existing conditions with compassion and expertise. One of the ways we commonly prevent GI disorders in our patients is by providing regular health screenings.

With screenings, often physicians may find illnesses or conditions before symptoms become apparent. Early detection is often an important factor in treating or curing a problem. Talk to your doctor about screenings that are appropriate for your age and gender.

Advanced GI treatments and procedures

Using state-of-the-art procedures, we diagnose and treat a wide range of GI conditions. Our GI procedures include:

• Capsule endoscopy
• Colonoscopy and upper endoscopy
• Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR)
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)
• GI motility testing
• Radiofrequency ablation for Barrett’s esophagus

Our gastroenterology services are delivered through a multidisciplinary team approach. We collaborate with radiologists, oncologists, surgeons, and primary care providers to ensure each patient receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs 

Colonoscopy and colon cancer screenings

Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, but at Hillcrest, we know that it doesn’t have to be. Colon and rectal cancers can be prevented if detected early, which is why it’s so important to schedule regular colon cancer screenings.

The American Cancer Society recommends patients begin screening for colon cancer at age 45, or earlier if you have either a family history of colorectal cancer or an inherited condition that makes you more predisposed to develop colorectal cancer. Other factors may contribute to colon cancer, including inflammatory bowel disease, smoking nicotine, drinking alcohol, lack of exercise, and eating a diet rich in fats.

Colonoscopies are the best way to detect colorectal cancer. During this exam, your doctor examines the entire large intestines to detect the presence of polyps (abnormal clump of cells) that could be or become cancerous. When discovered early, colon cancer is highly treatable, so colonoscopy screenings are vital to your continued health.

Colonoscopies are recommended for patients who meet any of the following criteria:

• Aged 45 years or older
• Blood in the stool
• Family history of colon cancer
• Lower abdominal cramping
• Rectal bleeding
• Sudden change of bowel habits

Please call us at 918-579-4044 to schedule your colonoscopy.