Barrett's Esophagus - Center For Digestive Health

Barrett’s Esophagus

Overview

Barrett’s esophagus is a health condition that develops when acid reflux damages the esophagus, which is the pink tube connecting the stomach to the mouth. This damage causes the lining of the esophagus to grow thicker and redden in color.

Barrett’s esophagus often develops because of gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, which involves symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation of food. Barrett’s esophagus is the result of GERD symptoms leading to changes in the cells that line the lower portion of the esophagus.

Men and people with certain risk factors are more likely to develop Barrett’s esophagus. Those who have GERD or who believe they may be at risk of this condition should consult with a doctor, as Barrett’s esophagus can lead to esophageal cancer in rare cases

Applicable Procedures

24 Hour Ph Probe
EGD
EUS
Radiofrequency Ablation (previously called Halo Barrx)
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection

Does Barrett’s Esophagus Mean I Will Develop Cancer?

According to the Mayo Clinic, Barrett’s esophagus does increase a person’s risk of cancer, but this does not mean that you will develop cancer with this condition. In fact, the risk of cancer is quite low, and most people with Barrett’s esophagus never develop cancer of the esophagus. That being said, it is still important to work with a doctor to monitor the condition, as precancerous cells can be treated to reduce your risk of developing esophageal cancer in the future.

Should I Be Screened For Barrett’s Esophagus?

Experts recommend a Barret’s esophagus screening for individuals with certain risk factors. For instance, men who have weekly GERD symptoms that do not improve with medications, or who have two or more risk factors, such as a family history of Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer, being over age 50, having excess abdominal fat, or being a current or former smoker, should be screened for the condition. While women are less likely to develop Barrett’s esophagus, they should be screened for it if they that uncontrolled GERD symptoms.

How Is Barrett’s Esophagus Treated?

Treatment will depend upon the severity of Barrett’s esophagus. According to the Mayo Clinic, if you have no precancerous changes to the cells of your esophagus, a doctor will monitor your condition and provide treatment to manage GERD symptoms. This may include medication, lifestyle changes, and in some cases

Common Symptoms

I find that I suffer from heartburn most days, and sometimes I even feel as if I am regurgitating my food.
I sometimes have trouble swallowing food.
After living with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) for several years, I started to suffer from bouts of chest pain.

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Center For Digestive Health, Rochester Hills4.8

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Cindy W.

Recently underwent a fourth procedure here at the Center with Dr. Nandi. The entire staff is professional, caring and skilled in their work and patient concerns. Dr. Nandi is skilled and caring and takes time to listen to his patients. The staff works well together which helps put the patient at ease.

Joanne M.

I really appreciate the ability to connect easily and quickly with Dr. Wille through his staff by text and phone messages. I find his staff to be professional and their assistance is very helpful. Dr. Wille is a great listener and answers my questions and concerns without making me feel uncomfortable which I appreciate. I know I am getting the best care. He really cares about his patients.

Angie K.

Dr. Quallich is the best! Very helpful, kind and patient. Always up to date on new treatment options.

Domenica B.

Wonderful people and atmosphere! Took my nerves away

Anthony G.

My procedure with Dr. Bologna went great. Couldn't have asked for a better experience. The entire staff were all very compassionate. As a physician myself, I was very comfortable having my procedure at Center for Digestive Health, and would recommend them to anyone.

Susan S.

Everyone was so kind. I really appreciate it. Thank you staff and Dr Bologna!

Marsha G.

Everyone on the team that I interacted with was pleasant, patient, and professional.

John W.

Very professional team and extremely talented

Rose A.

I am grateful for the care by staff, nurses, nurse anesthetists and Dr. Richard Wille. Prior to the colonoscopy, Dr. Wille discussed with me my concerns. Afterwards, the center followed up for any problems or questions. The center runs efficiently from start to finish. Very satisfied !

janet V.

Dr Webber is a great doctor. I’ve been a patient of his for a long time. Highly recommend him and The Center for Digestive Health. Excellent care.

David H.

Great overall experience. Efficient, pleasant, courteous and professional staff at each step of the process. I feel that I received great service along with professional treatment, and I am confident in the quality and integrity of the services provided. I highly recommend Troy Gastroenterology.

Michael C.

This was a great experience. Quick, professional and well organized. Successful

Al C.

Very professional.

Karol B.

Check in was welcoming and quick. All the nurses were very friendly. Experience was very good.

arnold D.

On time telehealth. Very relax experience. PA took time to ask lots of questions. All concern well addressed. Thanks.

Joel J.

Dr. Willie and the Team at Troy Gastro are a well oiled machine.

Steven R.

I went to the center of digestive health for a colonoscopy and Dr. Donat and his office staff and nurses were the best ! When I arrived the waiting room was packed .I had never been there before and feared a long wait . To my surprise in a few minutes they called my name to go back to pre op and the whole process from entering pre op to leaving home after my procedure was less than a hour !!’ I can not say enough on how well I was treated through my stay there !! I would highly recommend them !!

Paul B.

Extremely efficient operation. Basically in and out in just over an hour for a colonoscopy. Detailed report received, extremely professional staff!

Marianella A.

I continue see Dr Bakken for all this past 10 yrs, after too many bad experience with other doctors, she was the one to found my stomach problems, now I check with her all the time, she is very patient but go directly with you .Her office and nurses staff are very nice.

Pamela L.

Great experience, easy to connect to the tele health. Love DR Willie!!

David

Very friendly made me feel comfortable and told me what they were doing step by step. Highly recommend.

Jayne L.

This office is the absolute best. Always have a positive experience. Everyone is very professional and caring!

Carol H.

Very organized and excellent workers!

James B.

Very efficient and organized.

Frank S.

Colonoscopy prep information, guidance, supplies and follow up texts during prep time were a nice touch. Very efficient visit for the procedure. Was out 1 hour and 5 minutes past my appt.

The Center for Digestive Health4.8

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Lauri R.

always receive prompt call backs and staff is friendly

nina C.

I went here for my first colonoscopy. Every single member of the staff that I had an experience with was kind, warm, and empathic. I felt very safe and well cared for. From start (making the appt) to finish (follow up phone call the day after my procedure) everything went very easily and made the process as good as it could be.

Robert G.

Great center, from the time you walk in until you leave. Everyone is focused on the comfort of the patient. Highly recommended!

Tag Up With L.

Dr. Bakken and the entire staff at CFDH were kind, professional, and felt taken care of for my first colonoscopy. Highly recommend.

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.

Amir Abadir MD, FRCPC

Anezi E. Bakken MD, MS

Sante D. Bologna MD, FACP

M. Emin Donat MD, FRCPC

Partha S. Nandi

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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