Gastroenterology is the medical specialty which diagnosis and treats disorders of the digestive system. This includes the organ systems of Biliary, Colon, Esophagus, Liver, Pancreas, Small intestine, Gall bladder, Large intestine, GI tract, and Rectum. Gastrointestinal disorders include:
- Diverticular disease
- Pancreatitis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Esophageal Disorders
- Colon Cancer
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Ulcers
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding
- Gallstones
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Anal Disorders
GI physicians use a variety of different procedures and tests to diagnose and treat these disorders. Some of these tests include ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography); colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, laproscopic Colectomy, and EGD (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy). Some of the more commonly performed radiographic imaging studies utilized by GI physicians include x-rays, barium swallow studies, abdominal ultrasound, Cholescintigraphy (HIDA Scan), and PET scans.
