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Procedures

 

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is the most effective way to detect early signs of cancer in the gastrointestinal tract. Our team provides high-quality colonoscopy procedures that prioritize your comfort. During this exam, a gastroenterologist uses a long, flexible tube — called a colonoscope — to view the entire colon.

 

Hemorrhoid treatments

There are both non-surgical and surgical approaches to the treatment of hemorrhoids; your doctor can help you determine the appropriate management, based on your individual needs. We offer non-surgical treatment options, include dietary and lifestyle modifications, the use of medications, and rubber band ligation.

Upper endoscopy

During an upper endoscopy, the physician gently inserts the scope down the patient’s throat to obtain images of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestines. This procedure is useful in examining the digestive tract and helping to diagnose digestive disorders, such as reflux, dysphagia, strictures or narrowing.

 

Breath testing

We offer breath testing for H. pylori and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth both of which can be easily performed in the office. H. pylori is a bacteria associated with inflammation of the stomach, ulcers of the stomach, and stomach cancer. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is associated with bloating and abdominal discomfort.

Capsule endoscopy

Capsule endoscopy is a non-invasive technology that allows your doctor to inspect the lining of the small intestine, an area of the gastrointestinal tract that is generally difficult to image. It involves swallowing a small pill-shaped camera that captures images as it passes through the esophagus, stomach, large and small intestines, and colon.

 

Sigmoidoscopy

A sigmoidoscopy is a procedure involving a thin, flexible camera that is inserted to examine a portion of the colon and the rectum. It is frequently performed as an alternative to a colonoscopy for certain indications.

Conditions

 

Cancer screening & prevention

“45 is the new 50”: Last year, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force updated their colon cancer screening guidelines to lower the age at which people should begin screening from age 50 to 45—a critical change that reflects a climbing trend of higher rates of colon and rectal cancer in younger people. Generally, when screening begins is a conversation with your gastroenterologist, and those with additional risk factors may need more frequent or earlier screening.

 

Diarrhea & constipation

Although episodes may be self-limiting or treated at home, testing may be required for further work-up when these symptoms continue. Blood tests, stool tests, breath testing, and imaging may be used to help. In certain settings, an endoscopy or colonoscopy may be required for further evaluation.

 

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are very common and caused by swollen veins of the rectum. They can be internal - hidden inside the rectum and not seen - or external, which can be seen or felt on the outside of the rectum. Both types can lead to symptoms.

 

Liver disease & hepatitis

Hepatitis is a serious inflammation of the liver, usually due to a virus. Treatment for hepatitis varies, depending on the type and severity of the disease.

Abdominal pain

Abdominal pain is one of the most frequent reasons to seek medical care. There are many different potential causes and presentations of abdominal pain, and additional testing - possible blood work, imaging, breath testing, or an endoscopic procedure - may be needed to figure out the root cause of your symptoms.

 

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

IBD describes several disorders, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, in which the digestive tract becomes chronically inflamed. IBD can be debilitating and lead to severe complications or digestive organ damage. Fortunately, expert care and treatment can help patients manage symptoms, lessen inflammation, prevent complications — and improve their quality of life.

 

Gastrointestinal bleeding

Testing for gastrointestinal bleeding includes obtaining blood work for analysis which may show anemia (low blood cell counts), abnormal blood clotting function, or liver dysfunction. Further evaluation typically includes an upper endoscopy and/or colonoscopy, a capsule endoscopy or additional imaging may be performed. Because treatment depends on severity and location, it is important to be evaluated by your doctor to determine the appropriate next steps.

 

Gas & bloating

Increased air within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is frequently felt as excessive belching, bloating, abdominal distention or flatulence.

Acid reflux & heartburn (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) refers to the backup of stomach acid into the esophagus, and the most common symptoms of acid reflux are heartburn and regurgitation. Based on severity and frequency of symptoms, treatment may include dietary and lifestyle modifications, over-the-counter or prescription medications, and possibly additional testing may be required for further evaluation.

 

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD)

The two major causes of peptic ulcers are the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or infection with H. pylori bacteria. Along with your history, H. pylori testing or upper endoscopy may aid in diagnosis, and we will tailor your plan of care to the underlying cause, to manage and treat peptic ulcers.

 

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a common disorder in which the intestines do not function properly. People with IBS can experience a range of symptoms including abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea or both. Thankfully, with expert IBS care, you can improve your quality of life. Our board-certified gastroenterologists help patients diagnose IBS, identify triggers, and treat symptoms.

 

Motility & esophageal disorders

Motility disorders are conditions in which the muscles and nerves in the gastrointestinal tract do not contract and tighten properly during the digestive process. For example, dysphagia is one type of motility disorder of the esophagus. Dysphagia makes swallowing difficult, preventing food and liquid from being delivered to the stomach.

 

“Dr. Ottaviano is professional, knowledgeable, and extremely helpful. He listened to my concerns; I felt heard before he gave me help. He's very personable and I trust his medical opinion.”

— LAURA H., ZOCDOC VERIFIED PATIENT

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