UMass Memorial Medical Center gastroenterologists are leaders in Central Massachusetts in performing diagnostic procedures, such as the ones listed below:
Colonoscopy
Video Capsule Endoscopy
Endoscopic Ultrasound
Photodynamic Laser Therapy
Double Balloon Enteroscopy
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is the standard screening exam for detecting colorectal cancer and other diseases of the lower digestive tract. It allows physicians to look at the interior of the large intestine and helps detect polyps, tumors, ulcers, and inflammation of the rectum and colon.
Video Capsule Endoscopy
UMass Memorial provides this painless and noninvasive approach to examine the gastrointestinal tract. A disposable, miniature video camera contained in a capsule is ingested by the patient and delivers high-quality color images while the patient continues normal daily activities. This state-of-the-art technology can diagnose conditions such as Crohns' disease, celiac disease, tumors, iron deficiency anemia and obscure bleeding.
Endoscopic Ultrasound
Endoscopic ultrasound plays a vital role in the management of upper gastrointestinal disorders, particularly those of the esophagus, pancreas, stomach, lung and bile duct. Thanks to this technology, our fellowship-trained physicians can view various types of cancers, evaluate chronic pancreatitis, and study abnormalities of the bile duct and lesions in the intestinal wall.
Photodynamic Laser Therapy
A nonsurgical treatment of esophageal cancers and Barrett's esophagus, this therapy involves intravenous infusion of a photosensitive agent, which is retained in cells. Light from a laser is absorbed into the cells and produces oxygen radicals, which destroy the abnormal cells.
Double Balloon Enteroscopy
Double balloon enteroscopy (DBE) is performed with one of the few specialized scopes available in the United States. DBE allows the endoscopist to view the entire small intestine and obtain an endoscopic exam. More importantly, DBE allows the physician to perform various procedures throughout the small intestine.