Digestive diseases vary from common problems such as acid reflux to rare inherited liver conditions. Some diseases need life-long management by a gastroenterologist, and some diseases, including cancers, may be prevented or even cured with early detection and diagnosis. The gastroenterologists at Main Line Health, with locations throughout the Philadelphia region, manage all forms of digestive diseases.
Colonoscopy screenings
Your Main Line Health gastroenterologist performs regular screenings for colorectal cancer with a colonoscopy, your most powerful weapon for preventing colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer that is very often curable when detected and treated early. And screening tests such as colonoscopy, the “gold standard” for screening for colorectal cancer, allow your gastroenterologist a view of your entire colon to find and view growths such as polyps that can be removed before they turn into cancer. Read some of the most frequently asked questions about colonoscopy and why it’s important not to skip it.
Colorectal cancer does not always produce symptoms and that is why screening is so important. You may be at higher risk for colorectal cancer if you are 50 or older, or have a family history of colorectal cancer.
Digestive diseases managed by your gastroenterologist
There are a wide range of digestive conditions that are diagnosed and treated by your gastroenterologist, who may also work in collaboration with other medical and surgical specialists as needed, to ensure you receive a comprehensive and coordinated individual treatment plan and ongoing care. Your team may include vascular, colorectal, gynecological or thoracic surgeons, and other medical and surgical specialists to ensure your treatment plan addresses all of your individual needs.
The digestive conditions evaluated and managed by your gastroenterologist include acid reflux, GERD, and swallowing disorders, as well as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis, and irritable bowel syndrome. Your gastroenterologist also oversees your care for cancers such as esophageal or stomach cancer.
Why choose Main Line Health for gastroenterology?
State-of-the-art endoscopic diagnosis and treatment
Endoscopy is revolutionizing the way gastroenterologists care for many digestive health conditions. It is a nonsurgical procedure using a flexible tube with a light and camera attached to it that allows your gastroenterologist to view images of the inside of your digestive tract on a color monitor, and to provide nonsurgical treatment at the time of evaluation.
Nutrition therapy
We offer nutrition services throughout the community. Staffed with registered dietitians and other nutrition specialists, one-on-one counseling, personalized diet pans and ongoing education is available to support a wide range of health conditions affecting your digestion.
Dedicated center for celiac disease
One in 133 Americans suffers from undiagnosed celiac disease that may lead to more serious health problems such as nutritional deficiencies, osteoporosis, neurological conditions and even cancer. Main Line Health was one of the first community hospitals in the Philadelphia area with a dedicated program to manage celiac disease. Our celiac center program is run by a gastroenterologist with an expertise in managing celiac disease, along with registered dietitians on staff who work with you to develop personalized plans related to your individual needs. The program teaches you how to remove gluten from your diet, and how to choose, cook and dine out with meal choices including gluten-free grains.
