Gastrointestinal tests
If you have a gastrointestinal (GI) condition or symptoms, we may order tests to gather more information.
Common tests include biopsy and state-of-the-art imaging. Once your tests are complete, we will discuss the results with you. We confirm your diagnosis and decide on the next steps.
You may have one or more of these tests to help us confirm a diagnosis.
Biopsy
During a biopsy, we remove a small sample of your tumor tissue for testing. There are two primary types of biopsies you might experience:
Minimally invasive biopsy:
A minimally invasive biopsy uses a special needle to sample an abnormal area. Most commonly, we perform this procedure in radiology with image guidance.
An image-guided biopsy uses ultrasound or CT (computed tomography). It guides the needle and ensures accurate tissue sampling.
An image-guided needle biopsy usually requires a very small incision (2 to 5 mm). It typically doesn't need stitches or sutures. The results of the biopsy are usually available within 2 working days. The recovery from the procedure usually occurs within 48 hours.
Surgical biopsy:
A surgical biopsy requires a small incision to remove a small sample of tissue or a tumor lump. We give you some form of anesthesia to prevent discomfort, and you will have a surgical scar.
CT (computed tomography) scan
A CT scan is a series of X-ray images of a part of the body. It's combined by a computer to give doctors a detailed picture.
Endoscopy
An endoscopy is a nonsurgical procedure used to examine the digestive tract. We use an endoscope, a flexible tube with a light and a camera. We can carefully examine pictures of your digestive tract on a color TV monitor.
Upper endoscopy:
We insert the endoscope into your mouth and gently move it down your throat and into your esophagus. We view your esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine. During this procedure, you'll be able to breathe normally.
Lower endoscopy (colonoscopy):
Before this test, we will give you a sedative to help you sleep and ease any discomfort. We gently slide an endoscope into your anus and slowly move it through all parts of your colon. The endoscope transmits images of your entire large intestine. The procedure examines the rectum, all the way up through the colon to the lower end of the small intestine.
We use this procedure, among other purposes, to look for early signs of cancer in the colon and rectum.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
An MRI test uses magnetic fields and radio waves to capture detailed images of GI organs. During the procedure, you lie flat on a padded platform. The platform then slides you into the center of a tube-shaped MRI machine.
You will not feel the magnetic fields or radio waves around you, but you will hear a loud thumping sound.
You must lie very still during the procedure. We work with you to help you be as comfortable as possible during the procedure.
Ultrasound
Ultrasounds use sound waves to take images of organs and soft tissues. This is a non-invasive method of evaluation and diagnosis.
It's often used as a follow-up test after an abnormal finding on other imaging or clinical exam. Ultrasounds are also used to guide a needle biopsy.
Gastrointestinal treatments
There are many types of benign (non-cancerous) GI conditions and types of GI cancer. We treat both types and offer a range of world-class treatments.
We discuss with you the best GI treatments for your condition. We explain what you can expect for results and what you may experience as side effects.
Treatments for benign GI conditions
We discuss therapy for any benign GI condition you may have. This may involve observation, surgery, antibiotics, or reassurance.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer drugs to kill cancer cells that may be in your bloodstream. You may receive chemotherapy through an IV or by mouth, depending on the drug.
Chemotherapy is sometimes used after surgery to reduce the chance of cancer returning in organs other than the primary site.
We meet with you to discuss your treatment options and potential side effects. We follow up with you about your progress throughout treatment.
Whenever possible, we coordinate treatment through outreach centers closest to your home so you can minimize your travel during therapy.
Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy uses radiation to kill cancer cells. It can be effective in destroying cancer cells' DNA. It can also help prevent cancer recurrence. We may recommend that you undergo radiation therapy either before or after surgery.
Different uses of radiation have different treatment durations. Our radiation oncologists are experienced in advanced radiation treatments for GI cancer. We will plan your treatment schedule and follow your progress.
Surgery
Many individuals with GI cancer will undergo surgery. Your doctor will discuss options with you based on your diagnosis. Our surgeons will work with you to help you make the best decision for yourself.
Physical therapy
Some patients may experience limited mobility after treatment. Exercises after surgery can help you recover mobility and return to normal activities. Physical therapy can help with persistent pain or swelling of the surgical site. We work with you to find rehabilitation services close to home.