Colonoscopy

Overview

Colonoscopy is a procedure that enables your physician to examine the lining of the colon (large bowel) for abnormalities by inserting a flexible tube that is about the thickness of your finger into the anus and advancing it slowly into the rectum and colon.

Additional Information:

 

Click Here to View Colonoscopy Prep Instructions

 

What is a colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is a procedure that enables your physician to examine the lining of the colon (large bowel) for abnormalities, by inserting a flexible tube that is about the thickness of your finger, into the anus and advancing it slowly into the rectum and colon.

 

What preparation is required?

The colon must be completely clean for the procedure to be accurate and complete. Your physician will give you detailed instructions regarding the dietary restrictions to be followed, and the cleansing routine to be used. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. If you do not, the procedure may have to be cancelled and repeated later.

 

What about my current medications?

Most medications may be continued as usual. You should inform your physician of all current medications, as well as any allergies to medications, several days prior to examination. However, drugs such as aspirin or anticoagulants (blood thinners) are examples of medications whose use should be discussed with your physician.

 

What can be expected during a colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is usually well tolerated and rarely causes much pain. There is often a feeling of pressure, bloating, or cramping at times during the procedure. Your doctor may give you medication through a vein to help you relax and better tolerate any discomfort from the procedure. You will by lying on your side or on your back while the colonoscope is advanced slowly through the large intestine. As the colonoscope is slowly withdrawn, the lining is again carefully examined. The procedure usually takes 8 – 20 minutes. In some cases, passage of the colonoscope through the entire colon to its junction with the small intestine cannot be achieved. The physician will decide if the limited examination is sufficient or if other examinations are necessary.

 

What if the colonoscopy shows something abnormal?

If your doctor thinks an area of the bowel needs to be evaluated in greater detail, a forceps instrument is passed through the colonoscope to obtain a biopsy (a sample of colon lining). This specimen is submitted to the pathology laboratory for analysis. If the colonoscopy is being performed to identify sites of bleeding, the areas of bleeding may be controlled through the colonoscope by injecting certain medications or by coagulation (sealing off bleeding vessels with heat treatment). If polyps are found, they are generally removed. None of these additional procedures typically produce pain. Remember, the biopsies are taken for many reasons and do not necessarily mean that cancer is suspected.

 

What are polyps, and why are they removed?

Polyps are abnormal growths from the lining of the colon which vary in size from a tiny dot to several inches. The majority of polyps are benign (noncancerous) but the doctor cannot always tell a benign from a malignant (cancerous) polyp by its outer appearance alone. For this reason, removed polyps are sent for tissue analysis. Removal of colon polyps is an important means of preventing colorectal cancer.

 

How are polyps removed?

Tiny polyps may be totally destroyed by fulguration (burning), but larger polyps are removed by a technique called snare polypectomy. The doctor passes a wire loop (snare) through the colonoscope and severs the attachment of the polyp from the intestinal wall by means of an electrical current. You should not feel pain during polypectomy. There is a small risk that removing a polyp will cause bleeding or result in a burn to the wall of the colon, which could require emergency surgery.

 

What happens after a colonoscopy?

After colonoscopy, your physician will explain the results to you. You may have some cramping or bloating because of the air introduced into the colon during the examination. This should disappear quickly with the passage of flatus (gas). Generally, you should be able to eat after leaving the colonoscopy, but your doctor may restrict your diet and activities, especially after a polypectomy.

 

Why do I need someone to drive me home?

Even if you feel alert after the procedure, your judgment and reflexes may be impaired by the sedation for the rest of the day, making it unsafe for you to drive or operate any machinery.

 

What are the possible complications of colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy and polypectomy are generally safe when performed by physicians who have been specially trained and are experienced in these endoscopic procedures.

One possible complication is a perforation or tear through the bowel wall that could require surgery. Bleeding may occur from the site of biopsy or polypectomy. It is usually minor and stops on its own, or can be controlled through the colonoscope. Rarely, blood transfusions or surgery may be required. Other potential risks include a reaction to the sedatives used and complications from lung or heart disease. Localized irritation of the vein where medications were injected may rarely cause a tender lump lasting for several weeks, but this will go away eventually. Applying hot packs or hot moist towels may help relieve discomfort.

Although complications after colonoscopy are uncommon, it is important for you to recognize early signs of any possible complication. Contact your physician who performed the colonoscopy if you notice any of the following symptoms: severe abdominal pain, fever and/or chills, or rectal bleeding of more than 1/2 cup. Bleeding can occur several days after polypectomy.

 

How a colonoscopy works

“A colonoscopy is a procedure where your GI doctor looks in your large intestine with a flexible scope. This is done to look for polyps or other diseases that affect the colon.

Although it sounds a bit unpleasant, patients are sedated and the procedure is painless. For a lot of folks, the preparation is the worst part. The prep involves only drinking clear liquids and avoiding solid foods the day before the procedure. Patients then drink a laxative solution to clear out the colon completely. So the grunt work is really done the day before, where you should probably stay home and close to the bathroom.

Anyone with intestinal or bowel problems can undergo a colonoscopy, but everyone should have a colonoscopy at age 50 to look for polyps!”

-Emin Donat, MD, Center For Digestive Health

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What They Are Saying

Sue D.
One of the things I love most about Dr. Donat, is his kind and caring manner, he listens, asks questions and is mindful of the patients concerns. That's why I have been a patient with this office and this Dr. for over 15 years. The staff is kind and caring and does their best to work with patients.
Sharon M.
The girl helping me in the room was very pleasant. Very intuitive. Very alert and right on top of everything. I thank her very much. She made the experience very nice. + That's it. Thank you goodbye . Dr. Syed was very pleasant. I enjoyed talking with her. I think that she has a new patient. Thank you, goodbye
Andy M.
Great experience at this facility. Staff and Dr. Donat were very professional.
Kellie P.
Third visit to Macomb Center for Digestive Health. Dr. Bologna and the staff were great. Very efficient, personable and pleasant to work with. Highly Recommend! Kellie
Dan J.
Dr Donat’s team was excellent. They kept me informed about everything related to my procedure. They were courteous, friendly, helpful, and kind throughout my time with them. I felt completely at ease and comfortable. Dr Donat took the time to speak with me afterwards to describe what he did and address next steps. Don’t hesitate to schedule your colonoscopy or other procedure with Dr Donat and his team at Troy Gastroenterology and the Center for Digestive Health.
Kit D.
Very professionally run. Is now my go to gastroenterologist. PA very knowledgeable and very pleasant.
Sara S
Dr. Webber is a breath of fresh air!! He listens and wants to help! So nice and helpful! Recommend Dr. Webber!
Tamara T.
Overall experience with this physician and group was exceptional. Timeliness of appointment and scheduling was flexible and an unexpected work conflict requiring a reschedule was easily accommodated. Checking in and intake were low key and the two women I worked with helped me relax. I was treated respectfully and kindly by all care extenders and the physician. Follow up call in the afternoon was appreciated.
“Senior pix” are not fun - having a great group to work with made it far easier.
Peggy B.
Excellent
Tim H
Doctor and staff were very efficient. Appointment was quick. I was in and out in about 25min. I would recommend Doctor.
Lawrence W.
Excellent and carefully focused treatment
Kathy R.
Noelle Maude is truly the only GI Healthcare provider that has listened to my symptoms and worked with me to improve them, rather than just giving me another pill to try.
Nancy K.
Jennifer is terrific. She listened well to all my concerns and answered everything I asked. She is very knowledgeable and I never felt rushed even though she was the only Dr/NP in the office that day. She gives different treatment options and genuinely cared about my situation. Thank you Jennifer!
Quandra P.
Staff super nice , Energetic, Quick . Dr B Was so nice and i highly recommend folks to have their procedure here .
Randy K.
Appointment was on-time fast friendly personnel and team. In and out no issues. Friendly follow-up later in the day to ensure no after affects.
JoAnn M.
I seen Noelle she was very good I was pleased with her answers and the test she had me do.
Daphne J.
Very nice and warm 👌 with smiling face and asks lots of questions and listened to you explaining the symptoms and giving you answers you could understand 😀 also tips to fix some of them. Thank you for your time.
chris C.
Dr. Bologna is a brilliant doctor! He correctly diagnosed my problem and provided an effective treatment plan. I was back on my feet in no time.
Dorothy W.
Love Dr Willy and his staff. They're always so respectful and they make sure your comfortable. His bedside manner is top notch. He shows he really cares about you. Big hugs to him and all his staff.
Theresa O.
As a new patient, I found everyone helpful, knowledgeable and kind. 😊
Carrie V.
Quick, efficient and pleasant
Brittany T.
Took me immediately, didn't have to wait. Dr came in pretty quickly after I saw the nurse. Took my concerns seriously and scheduled my procedure within 2 weeks.
Stephanie P.
Dr. B was very helpful and thorough
James K.
Everything from check in to release was perfect. Staff was friendly and professional. Dr Quallish was great. Willing to take time and answer questions. I would highly recommend the Dr and staff.
George K.
I had a procedure this morning with Dr. Nandi at the Surgical Centers of Michigan located on Investment Drive. Dr. Nandi as always was the most professional and caring doctor that I have encountered.
But, what impressed me was the staff in the office. The TEAM (receptionist, the nurse who checked me and made me ready for the procedure, Anesthesiologist and nurse in the procedure room, the recovery room nurse, the PA who called me later in the day to check-up on me) showed me such care and compassion. It made me feel as if I was the most important patient that they would encounter.
It is obvious that these professionals love what they are doing. They love helping others. That made all the difference to me.
Thank you.
Cathy H.
Everyone was so pleasant and cheerful and kind. Very good experience.
Julie D.
First time for a colonoscopy. Staff was amazing. They meet me feel at ease.
Larry S.
Everything went very well. Front office staff was welcoming and checking in was very easy. The ladies in my prep was very nice and made me feel comfortable. Dr Bologna and his staff for my procedure was also very professional
Jerry K.
Excellent doctor and staff
Joy S.
Staff was very comforting and professional in a situation that could be quite awkward and frightening .
Marylou M.
Very nice and pleasant doctor. Didn't have to wait, my appointment was on time.
John M.
Everyone was friendly and professional!
Mary Anne C.
Everyone there was extremely comforting, professional and kind, and it was a relief to know I was in GREAT hands. A big Thank You to the staff!!!
Tracy T.
I was very nervous but Dr. Bologna was very caring and put my mind at ease. Staff were very nice.
John M.
Great!
Sharyn C.
Staff very friendly & helpful. Love Dr. Wille
Patricia G.
Happy to have met her and she will be my new Dr
Gary N.
Everyone was very efficient and professional.
Rochelle C.
The staff was very helpful and professional. The Doctor (Bakken) was very knowledgeable & very detailed in her examination and gathering my personal information & family history & events. Great experience overall!
Susan V.
Dr Balogna and the entire staff were professional and helpful.
Shirlee H.
Appt was right on time and everything went very quickly. Everyone was very professional but also very kind. Doctor spent as much time as needed with me. My favorite doctor! Would highly recommend this practice.
K. Y.
My second time under the care of Gastroenterologist, Dr. Anezi Bakken and her staff, and my second experience, like my first 10 years ago, was extremely thorough and highly professional. I recommend this doctor and facility without hesitation.
Mary Ann K.
I was so happy to sit and explain how my bowel was working and the difference between divaticlitis and divaticulois and my diet
Erin S.
Everyone here were angels on earth! Made this super uncomfortable procedure very comfortable
Dan V.
Very efficient, kind, caring, could not ask for a better group of people.
Elizabeth G.
Staff was very nice!
Marva “Renee'” K.
Everything was wonderful, from, check in, to the back, my procedure, and checkout excellent service.
Selena C.
Staff is Exceptional!
Ellen M.
Seen quickly and issuse addressed
Howard B.
Every single staff person was so caring and so efficient I was in great hands from beginning to end
Darlene H
Easy in & easy out, no having to wait 1/2 hour to see the doctor.
robyn G.
Love Dr Balonga and Margaret!
Mary B.
Very efficient overall.
Josie D.
Dr. Tocco and his staff were very professional. From checking in to being escorted to my car. I would recommend them.
Cassie M.
Wonderful front office staff. Diligent with follow ups and easy to schedule. Super kind too!
Rod P.
Dr willie is the best
Michael P.
The staff and Dr Quallich were courteous thorough and professional.
Kimball C.
The prep team was great. They made me feel comfortable and cared for.
Rhonda B.
Very thoughtful and professional and made me feel comfortable with the procedure In and out as well
gust L.
Very polite and comfortable atmosphere and knowledgeable professional doctors ❤️
Lenore V.
Great staff , enjoyed visit with the doctor!!!
A S
Good office environment, professional and friendly staff.
Diane T.
Fast and friendly on day of procedure.
Sean B.
Dr. Wille and his NP’s are Top Notch with regards to taking care of my gastrointestinal issues. I’ll be honest, I did have a bad experience with another Dr in the group and will never see him again.
Regarding Dr. Wille, he was my father’s GI doc and helped him live some 20 years after his colon cancer. As for me, I’m in my early 60’s and Dr. Wille is well aware of my family history, taking great care of me and has a great bedside manner.
I met Nicolette this week for the 1st time and she was easy to talk to (even if it is/was a difficult conversation).
Robert W.
Dr. Tocco is excellent in his work ethics and bedside manners. Very pleased with him and being young !
Mike P.
CDH is set up for quick registration and in front of the PA, Nicolette, in a very timely manner. She was polite, thorough, and we have a good plan to take more steps in our plan of continuous digestive improvement! Thanks again. I'll be back for a scope.
Kathy R.
Had a excellent experience with every, station.
From check in to recovery.
The prep wasn't fun, but once I was in the office it went very quickly. Every staff member was very very friendly. Even the call to check up on me after I was home.
Thank for a great experience from ALL
John M.
The entire staff was very friendly and efficient. Entirely excellent experience.
ginnie P.
I have had Endoscopy with Dr. Nandi twice now and both times I was impressed with his professionalism along with his bedside manner. He has a great sense of humor that made me comfortable. The procedure was done in a timely manner and the staff was awesome!!
Maureen J.
They are the best. Organized, professional and pain free.
Brian
I'm grateful for having Dr. Williams for all these years
Sue T.
Dr. Nandi is the best!
Jeanette Y.
Excellent caring staff, timely appointments. I felt they knew my history well and made good care options.
Brandon R.
Great staff, Dr. Willie is the best. He always takes the time to answer questions and provide a clear explanation to the procedure. Thank You
Francisco N.
Appointment was on time. Dr. Willie’s PA bright, attentive , professional.
Genghiro B.
I had a good experience. Needed a colonoscooy and the staff we friendly and engaging. It made for a smooth and easy experience for me
Lolita M.
It was a calm and peaceful experience.
William M.
The staff and Dr Bologna was great and very helpful.
Molly C.
I was treated very well by everyone. There was very little waiting and I was in and out in an hour. I love Dr Donat because he is professional and has a fantastic bedside manner.
Marcia L.
My appointment was for 3:30 . At 3:33 my name was called. Dr. Willie and his staff are the best.
Frank B.
Great experience receptionist and nurses, tech.and Dr's were all great. Just need more room in the waiting room
John W.
The Center for Digestive Health and Dr. Wille have been taking great care of me for some time. I have nothing but high praise for the entire organization.
Saher A.
Outstanding help and friendly staff everything was perfect i recommended it to everyone need it.
patrick F.
The PA was very knowledgeable and treated me like I was her only patient for the day.
Tom S
I was weighed and the taken to an exam room promptly where BP and temp were taken. Dr. Wille came in shortly after and I was on my way home 20 minutes after my appointment time. Dr. Wille explained test results, discussed my situation, and ordered additional testing, and did not rush me at all.
Patti C.
I had a successful colonoscopy with Dr. Nandi. Very professional team of assistants.
kim D.
Dr Bakken and the entire staff are fantastic. The facility is really nice and very clean. Highly recommend!
Rick H.
From start to finish my entire experience for a colonoscopy was conducted with very professional and friendly staff with basically no waiting. I would not consider going anywhere else. Big Thank You Dr Quallich & the Professional Team.
Thomas A L.
very nice and helpful staff awesome Doctors, and PA. very caring and concerning about the problem.
Kathy M.
Everybody was so nice and very helpful there, great experience highly recommend them.
Terry P.
Very professional!!
Deb M.
I was seen quickly. I have to go back after blood work but Dr Nandi was thorough
Loraine B.
I had a positive experience with the team. They were all caring and worked well explaining everything. My discharge instructions were clear and the following day one of the nurses called to check on me. I would recommend Dr DeNot and team for anyone who needs their specialty.
michael R.
I am having moderate gut issues. I made an appointment with Karen. I followed the information Karen shared with me on how to improve my gut health. I followed Karen’s instructions and I am improving.
Pamela C.
I have been going to Dr. Baakan for my colonoscopy and digestive issues for nearly 2 decades now and wouldn’t go anywhere else. She is always calm and attentive and has great patience in explaining issues. The office staff is friendly and the office does an excellent job sending appointment reminders.
Kaylene B.
They got me in fast and Very nice Doctor
Tamara T.
I walked in and everyone was so amazingly friendly! Abby made me and my family feel relaxed. My PA (sorry I forgot your name) listened to everything I said! She NEVER blew off anything I described and almost instantly my systems eased when I started the meds she prescribed. Not gone but eased is so much better! I highly recommend going here!!!!! But only if you want to feel better quickly!!!
D A
Professional without being too ridged, which makes patients feel comfortable
carolyn S.
Dr. Desai put me totally at ease, and I could only dream of being as friendly and efficient as the scheduling receptionist was.
Ricky Z.
Amazing people and very easy.
Kate C.
Dr. Weber and the staff are very nice and accommodating. They make sure that you are made to feel important and comfortable in asking questions and when requiring studies you are treated with respect and not as an afterthought.
Carolyn G.
Dr.Donat and his medical staff are cordial, professional and efficient. I have always had a positive experience there.
carla C.
I’ve had several colonoscopy and never had such a pleasant experience as here (made this procedure a lot easier to endure). This was my first visit here and the entire staff were very helpful and the rooms were so clean..individual room for prep and recovery.Dr. Willie was very kind and very pleasant . If I could give “10” stars I definitely would
Janet S.
Great staff . Dr. Weber was a great listener.
Mary G.
Very efficient, kind, respectful, and very professional.
Michelle F.
My experience was the best from start to finish. I didn’t have one complaint. Everyone was so nice and helpful it made my experience the best it could be.
Larry T.
My appointment with Jennifer was informative and professional.
Joyce C.
This was my first colonoscopy. The staff was great and very caring. I would recommend them in a heartbeat.
FrannyJ J.
First I would like to say, staff was very friendly !! Dr. Donat was extremely nice and receptive. He listened and asked the right questions to describe my issues. I have had my problem for sometime now and I was VERY afraid of the procedure to diagnose my issues. DR. Donat made me feel comfortable and eased my fear. Not to mention my wait time was minimal.
Doug D.
Very professional, efficient and courteous.
Joann K.
excellent experience with PA Noelle. very thorough andd good advice.
Denise K.
I changed to Dr Willy because I wasn't getting any progress from my previous Dr. Things aren't going any differently here. He wants to schedule more tests that I've already had on more than one occasion. I had 17 ERCPs in 3 years with my previous DR. and now he wants another. I did the colonoscopy and EUS 2 years ago with Dr Willey. He said to make sure he didn't miss anything. If he missed something I don't want him as my Dr.!
Elinor S.
Dr Wille did his usual wonderful job of checking my symptoms and gave me good advice regarding my concern. Thank you doc!
Steve D.
Super easy process. Team makes you feel comfortable and informed. Really happy with the overall experience.
CE U.
On time and very efficient
Maude B.
Upon entering, the staff at the desk were very personable and patient. Met with Dr Eille who explained my upcoming procedure in detail as well as taking time to answer any questions I had.
James P.
My colonoscopy with Dr. Nandi was outstanding as usual. The staff, nurses, prep crew and Doctor made the procedure go smoothly.
Thanks to all, see you in 3 years.
Barbara D.
Appointment started on time and was completed in 15 minutes. Was very satisfied with my talk with the Dr. Wille. 👍😊
Daniel S.
Great staff, easy of scheduling, and was prompted every step of the way
John E.
I had an excellent experience both before and during my recent visit. Everyone involved was courteous and helpful and all my concerns were addressed an an appointment for necessary testing was scheduled. My initial office appointment was with Jenny Willie, NP.
Elaine M.
I was surprised I didn't have to wait very long to see the Dr because the last place I went to kept me waiting about 2 hours. Very positive experience.
Patricia B.
I see Dr. Nandi and I am very pleased with the knowledge he has.
Carol M.
Very friendly staff.
Steve R.
Ran on time, professional, friendly, efficient, well run.
Sarah J.
Getting any procedure is never pleasant, but the people who work here make it as pleasant as possible. They are so polite and warm, one feels like less of a chore. They even shared pictures of their dog with me ❣️ They are also wonderfully efficient, so no hanging around wasting time. In and out in record time. They also provided fabulous pre procedure tools and instructions. I was so very impressed.

Thank you to everyone at the Center for Digestive Health.
Steve C.
Staff was professional, caring, and polite.
Teresa H.
Staff was very nice, the Dr Bakken was very knowledgeable. And seem to have idea of how to care for my problems. Look forward to my next visit.
Jamie P.
What a dynamic staff! From phone registration to post procedure phone call every single staff member was polite, knowledgeable and attentive. I highly recommend!!
Jeff D.
Very friendly staff. Unfortunately for me, I have been there many times. Always a "good" experience.
Jo S.
The staff at The Center for Digestive Health is very warm and welcoming; as well as pleasant, personable and professional. The office is bright and clean. Dr. Donat is an exceptional physician, carefully listening to you—his patient—and taking your concerns seriously. He answers your questions, and works to get to the bottom of your issues. I’ve been seeing Dr. Donat for years and he’s always provided helpful advice and successful treatments. My hat’s off to The Center for Digestive Health, its staff and Dr. Donat.
Nellie F.
Always know that I will be waited on promptly and very professionally. Dr. Donat is the very best and so glad I found him when I was first having stomach issues.
bernard G.
Doctor was very knowledgeable and advised me what he thinks is the best treatment for me .
Ollie B.
The overall atmosphere of the office was very pleasant. The staff and Dr. Desai were friendly and professional. Highly recommended!
Peter S.
Love this place. Dr Bologna is excellent and my whole family goes to him. Office staff is wonderful too… keep it up
Ceci G.
Staff very knowledgeable. Dr. Bakken always take time to talk to you and doesn't make you feel rushed.
Dawn P.
Always have a great experience the staff is considerate,professional & they all care. I see Noelle she's the best!!
Lori L.
Everything and everyone was terrific!
Jill S.
Hands down no better doctor than Dr. Nandi. You will always know you are getting the best treatment and he always makes you feel comfortable and keeps you laughing to ease any nerves you may have.
Karen
Great operation! Office is well run and my appointment was on time. My nurse , a gentleman, was amazing as well as Doctor Webber. Highly recommend.
K K
Great experience with staff and Dr. Bakken.
I usually see Nicolette VanMaldeghem in between visits with Dr. Bakken and she is excellent as well. I have nothing but good things to say about this practice.
Dan S.
My wife received the utmost in care. Staff was incredible from the reception desk, to the nurses doing the prepping and post care. Thank You to a very caring doctor - Dr. Wille. He met her with a smile which put her at ease quickly, explained the process, performed the procedure, met with me immediately after and then with both of us when she awoke.. Can't say enough about this entire process. Every staff member was smiling and joyful while discharging their duties. Thank You ALL for the high level of service and caring you provided..
Cathi
All of the staff from reception to discharge were friendly and fabulous. Doctor Bakken greeted me before procedure and explained everything after the procedure. Very good experience.
Allen J.
I was completely in awe if the service and attention that I received as a new patient from another hospital. Everyone from the receptionist who scheduled my initial appointment to Everyone I met including the doctor were attentive caring. I would definitely recommend the Center for Digestive Health to anyone seeking a first or second opinion.

Thank you all so very much!
Allen Jefferson Ed.D, MS
Michelle B.
Great team. Everything went smoothly from start to finish. Caring staff. Knowledgeable. Would highly recommend
Susan Z.
Didn’t have to wait long to see the NP. Everyone was pleasant.
John D.
Information provided in advance was excellent and helpful. Follow up notifications were well done and appropriately timed. Staff was very helpful upon arrival and wait time was minimal. Upon entering prep room everything was explained and questions on medicine taken and background was efficiently asked and processed. Doctor Willie explained everything prior to treatment and afterwards. All nurses and assistances were polite, efficient and informative. For the first colon screening that scared me, it was a very positive experience and I am very grateful to the entire staff and doctors at the facility. Thank you, best wishes to all. John
Johannes M.
Very friendly and great service provided
asmahan R.
Very professional and knowledgeable
Charlotte T.
Dr. BARREN WAS VERY PROFESIONAL AND INFORMATIVE OF MY CONDITION SHE SET TREATMENT IMMEDIATELY I STARTED GETTING PHONE CALLS THE VEREY NEXT DAY HER STAFF WAS VERY HELPFUL AND POLITE
Gary T.
Telehealth meeting with Jennifer was very convenient and was a consultation so no need to go to the office anyway. Jennifer was knowledgeable and answered all my questions thoughtfully and comprehensively. Good news is diagnosis was not too serious and she offered advice on diet and OTC medications to limit occurance of future episodes of acid reflux.
Hillbilly03 R.
Dr. Weber and the whole staff was super nice and on point. Hardly any wait. I also received a call later in the evening to see how i was doing.
Dana V.
Most friendly group of professionals. If you are nervous about a procedure these are who you want taking care of you.
Jenny H.
Dr. Bologna was very professional with great bedside manners. All the staff was very friendly. I was treated with respect.
Sahar G.
Lakeisha was AMAZING, helpful , compassionate , and sooo kind to talk to, she understood the urgency and was able to get my dad in to see a doc immediately!’n thank you so much , Lakeisha!!!!
Kat C.
Jennifer was great!
Mona B.
Love Dr. Bakken.
Mary E.
Very smooth process. Staff were very friendly and professional. Would highly recommend
Michael K.
Courteous staff.promptly saw me and listen to my concerns. Provider was attentive.
Kris G.
Arrived early and they took me early. Staff, nurses, doctors- all were excellent. Very friendly.
annette E.
I recently had two procedures on June 26th, 2025. Upon arriving at the office, the staff was friendly and helpful. Check-in was seamless, and I barely waited before being called. The team efficiently gathered my information and assured me I’d be seen shortly. Within five minutes, I was in a room.

The nurse and CRNA gathered more information and then the CRNA promptly wheeled me to the procedure room. Both the assistant and doctor were already there, ready and kind. The CRNA and assistant quickly got me all set up, and before I knew it, I was awake and ready to go.

A kind staff member even escorted me to my car afterward. Overall, it was a 5-star experience!
Tonika S.
This was one of the nicest experiences I’ve had in the medical field. They were sweet helpful and nice from the beginning to the end.
Sridhar V.
I really like the care in this facility. Dr Nandi and the team is awesome !!
Lisa F.
Everyone was so nice, it was greatly appreciated
Marcia L.
All staff was very kind and helpful. My visit with Dr Bakken was right on time. She made things very comfortable and didn't rush through our appointment.
Ron J.
Great visit, they went through my medical history very positive
Angela M.
The office was such a welcoming environment from the beginning. They quickly and efficiently move you through the process while making you feel as comfortable as possible.
Kaylene B.
They got me in fast and Very nice Doctor
Saher A.
Outstanding help and friendly staff everything was perfect i recommended it to everyone need it.
Ron J.
Great visit, they went through my medical history very positive
Dawn P.
Always have a great experience the staff is considerate,professional & they all care. I see Noelle she's the best!!

Our Doctors

We’re proud of our team here at Digestive Health Institute. Our health care providers include some of the very best colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists and physician assistants. To learn more about our qualified team of specialists, please visit our providers page.

Anezi E. Bakken MD, MS

Sante D. Bologna MD, FACP

M. Emin Donat MD, FRCPC

Partha S. Nandi

Leonard G. Quallich III MD

Jack Tocco DO

John R. Weber MD

Richard T. Wille MD

Tusar Desai MD

Aalia Saeed, MD

FAQs

What happens during my first visit?
If you are a new patient, you can expect to have a complete physical exam. You will also be asked detailed questions about your current problems and your past medical history, your current medications, allergies, your family history and other pertinent medical information. If you are taking medications, please bring a completed medical history form with you to your appointment. Once the physician has reviewed your medical information and completed the physical examination, a plan of care will be developed. You may need to be seen again in the office, be referred back to your family physician for follow-up care, or require additional testing. If additional tests are needed, we will assist you in scheduling these tests.
What if I need to schedule an endoscopic procedure?

An endoscopic procedure allows the physician to visualize a part of your gastrointestinal tract with a special instrument called an endoscope. If your family physician has ordered testing, you will be contacted by telephone by one of our staff members. If a physician orders testing and you are in the office, the procedure can generally be scheduled during the course of your visit. You will be given a date, time, and location for the test, as well as written instructions telling you how to prepare for the test. If you have any questions about the procedure, please feel free to ask one of our staff members or the physician.

How do I get test results?

We ask that you wait 10 to 14 days before contacting us for results. Often results come from several different sources. This information needs to be compiled and reviewed by your physician before you can be appropriately advised. 

What insurances do you accept?

We accept payment from most insurance companies including Medicare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Physicians Health Plan, Cofinity, Sparrow Professional Health Network, Medicaid, McLaren, Health Plus, and several others. Accepted insurances are subject to change at any time without notice.

If your insurance requires an authorization from your primary care physician, you may be asked to assist us in obtaining this authorization.

All patients are responsible for all copays and deductibles at the time of service.

If you have any questions regarding your benefits or insurance coverage, please contact our Billing Department at 248-844-9710.

What if I need to contact the doctor?

To contact your doctor during business hours please call our main number 248-844-9710. If you have an urgent need to speak with the doctor after hours, you will be rerouted to our after hours answering service, and your doctor will be paged. In the case of a medical emergency please proceed directly to the nearest hospital emergency room.

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