Gastroenterology (GI)

The Gastroenterology (GI)/Endoscopy department provides diagnostic and treatment services for diseases and conditions of the digestive organs. EJGH Gastroenterology physicians are specially trained to treat conditions specific to the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, colon, liver, and gallbladder. Through continuing education for nurses, physicians and staff and the latest in diagnostic technologies, our GI department is equipped with the knowledge, compassion and technical expertise to effectively treat digestive disorders ranging from the mild, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, to the severe, such as Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's disease.

By working in close conjunction with patients, radiologists and surgeons, when necessary, EJGH Gastroentrologists have accomplished great success healing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle for our patients.

Procedures performed in the department include:

• Upper Endoscopy (EGD/Gastroscopy) - An upper endoscopy is performed to examine the upper portion f the digestive tract including the esophagus, stomach and upper portion of the small intestine. By using a long thin tube with a video clip, a Gastroentrologists can see, through a TV monitor, where any potential problems may exist in a patient's upper GI tract.
• Sigmoidoscopy - Much like an upper endoscopy, this procedure allows physicians to view a patient's rectum and lower colon, on a video screen, by using a flexible tube.
• Colonoscopy - A long flexible tube with a video chip is used to examine the inner lining of the large intestine. It is used to diagnose a number of intestinal conditions and can be used to perform biopsies. A Colonoscopy is the best practice for identifying colon cancer.
• Endoscopic ultrasound - This procedure combines endoscopy and ultrasound to gather highly detailed information throughout the digestive tract.

Enterstomal Therapy

The Enterstomal Therapy department provides medical care, education and support to patients with ostomies (colostomies, ileostomies and urostomies). Certified enterstomal therapy nurses assist patients with skin care, appliance fitting, nutritional requirements and lifestyle changes. Enterstomal therapy nurses are graduates of an educational program accredited by the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (www.wocn.org).