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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Peggy M.

Very professional & caring staff. The prep for my procedure was a lot less harsh & easier on my system than when I do to do this before. Instructions were very detailed & easy to follow. Over all a very good experience. I would definitely recommend Troy Gastroenterology.

Michele M.

The prep prior to the procedure is miserable; however, the staff make the procedure as comfortable as possible.. They get you in and done as quickly and as accurately as possible...

Tina Di C.

I highly recommend Dr. Donat. The anesthesiologist was excellent, and all the staff were pleasant and helpful!"

gobluemikedavis

The team was very helpful, talked me through everything I was nervous about and really took care of me. The entire process was pain free and their level of service was incredible.

Jeanette Y.

Excellent caring staff, timely appointments. I felt they knew my history well and made good care options.

V.K. S.

Dr. Bologna was very friendly and kind and explained everything i needed to know. The supporting staff was also very supportive, kind and forthcoming to answer any questions. I will give five star to Dr. Bologna and his staff.

Matt W.

Everyone in the Center for Digestive Health - Troy Clinic was courteous, professional and comfortable to be with.

kavitha K.

Very happy with the place . All the staff and Dr. Tocco were amazing. Getting appointment was easy and they scheduled the procedure within 4 days. Please visit this place for your edg or colonoscopy needs. They are just amazing. Thank you

Nancy K.

The office was very well organized. Was called in timely fashion. The staff was very good and listened well.

Jim S.

Excellent experience. Everyone was friendly.

Robyn R.

Staff was professional and very friendly. My nurse Alyssa was absolutely the best I’ve ever had. I’m an extremely hard poke when it comes to IVs. Usually takes three times. Of course this makes me very nauseous and almost passing out due to all the pokes. She told me not to worry and relax. She’s got me. Alyssa told me she was using a 22 gauge which USA very small needle and she was able to get it in the side of my hand without me feeling a thing. OMG I cannot thank her enough. I love Dr. Willie, who is definitely one of my favorite and best docs. So kind, understanding, thorough, easy to speak with, and I never feel rushed. Thank you again for my wonderful care.

Ken L.

Everyone I met was welcoming and seemed to care very much about my health. The doctor and the entire team did an excellent job. I felt I was In very capable hands throughout the procedure.

Patticake B.

Happy to have met her and she will be my new Dr

Katherine A.

Dr Bologna has been my GI doctor for over 20 years. He and his staff have always provided excellent care.

Lauri C.

I had an excellent experience!

Bronislaw C.

Everything went well. Everyone was cheerful. The proceedure went well. All together it was a great experience.

Terry L.

All of the staff were knowledgeable and helpful. They offered a wheel chair and made my visit welcoming. Dr Nandi spoke with me before and after and answered all questions very thoroughly. Would recommend to all

cynthia B.

For a colonoscopy, it was an awesome experience! LoL Everyone was professional & so nice. One of my attendants had such a bubbly personality, it put me completely at ease! Wonderful place!!!

Monika D.

Everyone in the office was very nice and respectful and made me feel comfortable. Thank you

Michele H.

I have been a patient of Dr Quallich for five year and daughter has seen...never have to wait when I have an appointment...I have have several.procedures and only once they were off schedule...ur told for procedure that ur driver must stay in the waiting room...all directions are given verbally and in writing prior to the procedure.

Ruth S.

The doctor and staff were superior! They define the word "professional". My only suggestions would be to not send reminders daily. It got to be a bit much. Also, take the time to look at your waiting room with a fresh eye. It looks to be a completely ignored and shabby afterthought. This is the place where a patient gets a first impression and, in this case, it's not a very good one. A shame since the staff and doctor are beyond the best.

Fernando K.

My endoscopy with Dr. Wille could not have gone more smoothly. From scheduling the appointment to receiving clear instructions, having my questions thoroughly answered by the nurses, and the procedure itself - every step was seamless!

Rae S.

Dr.Bakken was great! Staff was very nice, they are my go to.

Joann K.

excellent experience with PA Noelle. very thorough andd good advice.

Rodney H.

It was a very positive experience. The staff were friendly and professional. The process was explained from start to finish. Was in and out in a timely and safe manner. Received a follow up call the next day to check on me.

The Center for Digestive Health4.8

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Dan F.

I was so impressed with every one there, kind and courteous every step of the way! Never felt so comfortable during the process from beginning to end. I had been to another facility in the past and I was urged to change Doctors from my wife. I’m glad I did, this place is indeed far better, more hands on and interactive. They asked many questions about my past and present health.. and had fun doing so and the care value was still there! The other place I had been going pales in comparison. Great staff.... I’m so happy I chose this new team! Yes I would highly recommend going here.. a # 10 for sure .. Thanks to everyone there if you read this !!

Barb C.

Excellent care ! Well run program! All the staff and Dr. Bologna were very professional and efficient at their jobs!

Carlo Z.

Dr. John Weber is the best .

Carrie K.

Unmatched care and professionalism. I can’t recommend Dr. Wille and his staff enough. Everyone showed the utmost kindness and competence.

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

Christina N. Brown, 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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