Coronavirus and the GI system: What does the evidence tell us?

The coronavirus continues to have an enormous impact on the way we live. Over the past several months, we have begun to learn more and more about the virus. We’ve learned about how it spreads, its symptoms, how to detect it, and potential approaches for vaccines. Crucially, the virus has several documented impacts and features […]

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatogram (ERCP): A Brief Overview

An Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatogram (ERCP) is a therapeutic endoscopic procedure that helps diagnose and treat diseases in the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and bile system. Here’s what you need to know about the procedure.  When an ERCP is used There are several reasons your doctor may perform an ERCP. One common reason is to diagnose and […]

Endoscopic Ultrasound: How to Prepare

An Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) is a procedure for assessing and producing images of the digestive system with an endoscope. It is also used as a modality to treat certain gastrointestinal disorders through fine-needle aspiration (FNA). Follow along for an overview of EUS.  When an Endoscopic Ultrasound is used An EUS can help doctors determine the […]

Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR): An Overview

Endoscopic Mucosal Resection, or EMR, is a therapeutic technique that helps remove precancerous and early stage cancer lesions during an upper endoscopy or colonoscopy. This technique is a less-invasive alternative to surgery. Here’s what you need to know if you are preparing for an EMR. When is an Endoscopic Mucosal Resection Used? EMRs are used […]

Hemorrhoid Banding: What to Expect

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. They can cause bleeding, itching, and pain. While most hemorrhoids resolve with home treatment, some can be harder to get rid of. There are several non-invasive treatments for hemorrhoids. In cases of highly symptomatic hemorrhoids, banding is one approach that can help. Here’s what you […]

Breath Testing

Breath testing is a noninvasive method doctors can use to diagnose gastrointestinal conditions. Here’s what you need to know about breath testing.  Breath Testing  Breath testing gives doctors a noninvasive way to diagnose several conditions. They can analyze your breath to detect amounts of particular gases, making diagnosis quick and simple. Typically, there are a […]

GI Luminal Stenting

GI Luminal Stenting is a procedure that inserts a stent in the GI tract to relieve obstruction. Here’s everything you need to know about the procedure.  When it’s used GI Luminal Stents can relieve obstructions in the GI tract. Obstructions are caused by numerous diseases, like GI cancers. They can cause blockages of food, fluid, […]

Single Balloon Enteroscopy: A Closer Look

Single Balloon Enteroscopy is a procedure that allows doctors to examine the small intestine. Follow along for everything you need to know about the procedure. When Single Balloon Enteroscopy used A Single Balloon Enteroscopy is used to examine, diagnose, and treat diseases in both the upper and lower GI tract. The advantage of the procedure […]

Radiofrequency Ablation: What You Should Expect

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a procedure that utilizes radio waves to destroy diseased tissue. Here’s what you need to know if you are preparing for the procedure.  When it’s used Radiofrequency ablation can be used during an upper endoscopy to treat Barrett’s esophagus. People with Barrett’s esophagus have an increased risk of esophageal cancer, and […]

Capsule Endoscopy: What You Need to Know

A Capsule Endoscopy is a procedure that allows doctors to examine the middle part of the gastrointestinal tract. Patients swallow a pill that contains a video camera, battery, and light source. The camera takes pictures as it travels through the GI tract, which allow doctors to examine the GI tract.  Here’s what you need to […]