Gastroenterology

Gastrointestinal issues can range from common conditions such as acid reflux and indigestion to more complex conditions including ulcers, Crohn’s disease and colon cancer.  

At Rivers Health, physician specialists in gastroenterology from Marshall Health offers a wide range of procedures, including upper endoscopies to examine the upper gastrointestinal tract and colonoscopies to examine the lower tract. In addition, we have a dedicated family nurse practitioner from Marshall Health, who operates a clinic for patients who are referred by their primary care providers.   

Upper endoscopy procedures such as esophagoscopy, gastroscopy and esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) are used to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach and small intestine. Upper endoscopy can locate and stop gastrointestinal bleeding, and it can be used to evaluate the esophagus and stomach after a major surgery or trauma. The procedure can detect early cancers and help pinpoint the cause of unexplained abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing or heartburn. 

Colonoscopy is an endoscopic procedure that locates ulcers, tumors, inflammation and bleeding in the large intestine. During a colonoscopy, tissue samples can be collected and abnormal growths can be removed for biopsy. The procedure, recommended every 10 years beginning at age 45, is an important screening test for colorectal cancers. 

To learn more about the gastroenterologists from Marshall Health click here.

For more information about gastroenterology services or to make an appointment at Rivers Health, call 304.675.1666.