Gastroenterology

Our physicians are recognized leaders in the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal or digestive system disorders that affect the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, gallbladder and other related organs.

Our physicians treat disorders including:

• Achalasia (Difficulty swallowing)
• Constipation
• Crohn's disease
• Diarrhea
• Fecal incontinence
• Gallstones
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• GI cancers
• Heartburn
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Liver diseases
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pancreatitis
• Peptic ulcer disease

We are one of only two facilities in the Kansas City area to offer endoscopic ultrasound. This outpatient diagnostic procedure provides detailed images of the GI tract and surrounding organs, allowing doctors to make an accurate diagnosis.

We also use the endolumenal functional lumen imaging probe (Flip®) advanced imaging system to capture specialized measurements of the pressure and function of the esophagus. EndoFLIP works in the lower esophageal sphincter to assess how well it is opening and closing. Following upper endoscopy, while the patient is still sedated, doctors introduce a tiny catheter and balloon to capture the measurements. This precise data helps distinguish between similar diseases.

The EndoFLIP can be used as an alternative or complement to high-resolution manometry (HRM) to evaluate for trouble swallowing. It can also be used to evaluate patients for:

• Achalasia
• Esophageal dysphagia
• Eosinophilic esophagitis
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Physicians may also use EndoFLIP during POEM or anti-reflux surgery. 

We are the only facility in the Midwest to offer the innovative peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) procedure, a minimally invasive and endoscopic option to treat achalasia.

We also use radio frequency ablation to remove precancerous cells from the esophagus. The approach uses a heated probe to target and destroy abnormal tissue before cancer can develop. Treatment is personalized by patient, but may involve repeated visits every 4-6 weeks until the cells are eliminated.

If you have questions on preparing for your procedure, call Endoscopy Scheduling at 913-588-3945, option 3.