Gastroenterology

The Providence St. Mary Physician Group gastroenterologist diagnoses and treats diseases and conditions of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts and liver. You most likely would see a gastroenterologist upon a referral from your primary care physician.

The gastroenterologist at Providence St. Mary Medical Center uses state-of-the-art technology, including capsule endoscopy, a vitamin-pill-sized camera that the patient swallows. The patient then goes about his or her day as the camera films its journey through the digestive tract. The technology offers doctor the most comprehensive view of the small intestine possible for the diagnosis of recurrent or persistent symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, bleeding or anemia.

Some of the most common GI procedures people have are:

• The colonoscopy, using a scope to examine the lining of the large intestine. In order to ensure the best view of the intestine, the you will be asked to do some preparation at home prior to the procedure. To see an example of instructions for colonoscopy preparation, click here. To see instructions for colonoscopy using Halflytely or Golytely, click here. Do not follow instructions directly off this internet site. The instructions posted are examples and are for your information only. The GI staff will give you specific preparation instructions to follow for your procedure.
• The upper endoscopy, using a scope to examine the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. To ensure the best view of these structures, you will be asked to eat lightly the night before, and then limit yourself to just clear liquids after a certain time. To see typical instructions given for an upper endoscopy, click here. Do not follow instructions directly off this internet site. The GI staff will give you specific preparation instructions to follow for your procedure.

Get directions to the gastroenterologists' office
Get directions to the Outpatient Procedure Center where many of the procedures are done