Dr. Ellis practices general gastroenterology, providing consultation and management of all gastrointestinal tract disorders. Procedures performed include:
- Upper G.I. Endoscopy
Upper endoscopy involves the insertion of a flexible tube into the mouth and subsequently down the esophagus, into the stomach and first part of the small intestine. Patients are sedated for this procedure, which is used to evaluate symptoms such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, stomach pains and problems such as gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) and ulcers. Biopsies may be taken to search for a bacteria, Helicobacter Pylori, which contributes to ulcers, as well as for conditions such as Celiac Disease. - Colonoscopy/Cancer Screening
Colonoscopy involves the examination of the colon with a flexible tube, which is inserted through the rectum and advanced around the colon, then slowly withdrawn during which time polyps may be removed. Screening and prevention of colorectal cancer are the most common reasons for performing this procedure. Preparation includes consuming only clear liquids on the day prior to the procedure, as well as drinking a cleansing solution. Usually, patients are sedated for this procedure, which lasts 15-30 minutes on average. You may review the instruction form on this website for more details. - Polyp Removal
Removal of polyps in the colon as well as in other areas of the gastrointestinal tract is a cancer-prevention procedure. Colon polyps are found in 25-40% of patients over the age of 50, with similar incidence in younger patients who have a family history of colon cancer or other genetically-related cancers such as breast, uterine, and ovarian cancer. Polyps are visualized at the time of colonoscopy and endoscopy, and they are removed by either the use of a wire-loop device (a “snare”), a biopsy instruments. The polyp may be cauterized as well. Patients do not feel any pain with this as the intestinal tract does not have nerve endings that sense this type of process. - Capsule Endoscopy
Capsule endoscopy (also termed wireless endoscopy, capsule enteroscopy) evaluates the small intestine, which is the area that cannot be reached in full by upper endoscopy and colonoscopy. The most common reasons for capsule endoscopy include searching for gastrointestinal bleeding and evaluating Crohn’s disease. A pill-sized video capsule which has its own lens and light source is swallowed, then travels through the intestine sending images to a transistor-radio-sized receiving device whnich is worn on a vest and returned to the office at the end of the day. The capsule is evacuated with a bowel movement, usually without the patient being aware. The images are reviewed by the doctor and the results discussed with the patient within a few days. - Helicobacter Pylori Breath Testing
Helicobacter Pylori is a bacteria that may cause ulcer symptoms (dyspepsia). There is also concern over a carcinogenic effect of this bacteria. The test involves arriving at the doctor’s office in the morning prior to eating or drinking anything, then ingesting a small amount of a test solution which interacts with the H. Pylori bacteria. This interaction produces a substance which is excreted in the breath, indicating the bacteria’s presence. Treatment involves a course of two antibiotics for a period of 7-14 days.
as well as other procedures related to the gastrointestinal tract.