Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal cancer occurs in the esophagus, which is the tube that connects the throat to the stomach and moves food into your stomach to be digested. While it can develop anywhere in the esophagus, esophageal cancer most commonly occurs in the cells lining the inside of the esophagus, and it is more common in men when compared to women.

Esophageal cancer medical illustration

Globally, esophageal cancer is the sixth most deadly form of cancer. There are regional variations in the prevalence of this cancer, with some regions having higher rates due to smoking, alcohol abuse, nutritional habits, and obesity.

Applicable Procedures

Endoscopic Mucosal Resection

What causes esophageal cancer?

There is no clear answer for what causes esophageal cancer, but people who have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or a condition called Barrett’s esophagus, which leads to precancerous changes in the cells of the esophagus, are at risk. Other factors like smoking, alcohol use, obesity, and a lack of fruits and vegetables in the diet can also increase the risk of esophageal cancer.

What is the treatment for esophageal cancer?

Treatment may involve surgery to remove tumors, or surgery to remove a portion of the esophagus, or a portion of both the esophagus and the stomach. You may require additional treatments, such as receiving food through a feeding tube while the esophagus heals, or having a stent placed to open a narrowed esophagus. Other treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. A doctor will work with you to determine the best course of treatment, depending on your health, preferences, and the type and stage of your cancer.

What are the complications of esophageal cancer?

You may experience complications, such as pain and bleeding. Cancer can also cause blockages in the esophagus, making it hard to swallow food and liquid.

Common Symptoms

  • “In the early stages, I had no symptoms, but I began to experience a worsening of my usual bouts of heartburn.”
  • “I felt burning and pressure in my chest, and I was losing weight without being on a diet.”
  • “I developed a bad cough, and I had difficulty swallowing during meals.”

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophageal-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20356084

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What Our Patients Are Saying

Center For Digestive Health, Rochester Hills
Excellent
4.7
Based on 4143 reviews
review us on
Lolita M.
It was a calm and peaceful experience.
Nancy Z.
Every thing went great. No wait. Staff and doctor were kind and worked well together. Definitely recommend.
Susan L.
Dr. Saeed did not seem rushed. I have a 30 yr history and recent health problems affecting my previous treatment.She listened to my concerns, can up with a plan of care, includinh my input/concerns. I feel confident in her ability to help me maintain control of my Chron's disease. Her office staff is also very pleasant and thorough. All in all very pleased with my first visit. Thank you.
Matthew K.
Went in last month to get a routine colonoscopy with Dr. Nandi. He was incredibly professional and his staff was very caring and supportive. The procedure was explained to me in detail of what to expect and how long it would take. They administered the anesthesia and the next thing I knew, I was waking up in the recovery room! All I can say is this experience was the greatest 20 minute nap I’ve ever had!!Thank you Dr. Nandi and staff!!!
William M.
The staff and Dr Bologna was great and very helpful.
Elaine B.
Wet kind,efficient and fast . A pleasant experience
Rich L.
Everyone is very pleasant. The procedure was a forgettable experience. I barely knew anything happened. Overall, Dr. Donat and his team are worth the visit.
James F.
Great experience all around. Everything clearly communicated. Minimal wait. Kind and professional service all-around. Check in person was great.
Sam
Dr Saeed listened to me and she’s so sweet and kind I highly recommend her
Jim F.
professional , efficient, expert, in all 3 phases : pre-procedure, procedure, post-procedure.
Steve L.
Excellent care facility. Everyone from walking in to walking out was very pleasant and helpful.
Amanda B.
Dr.Aalia Saeed is wonderful. I have had 3 EGD&colonoscopies with her.Most recent one being at Macomb Endoscopy Center which I found much more comfortable than the previous 2 @ Lapeer Regional Medical Center.highly recommend!
Anthony
First off, the receptionist at your office in Macomb is the most personable individual you could have ever asked for in greeting and taking care of your patients when they check-in. Secondly, from the nurses to all the staff that participated in my procedure they were all professional, very polite and personable…great, great staff! My physician Dr. Bologna, great doctor, very professional with a fantastic sense of humor. Overall, I can’t say enough great things about my experience and the staff at your Macomb facility. Thanks
Thomas F.
Dr. Weber is terrific! I feel very confident and comfortable with him as my G.I. specialist. His assistants, Debbie and Jamie, are very helpful, accommodating and pleasant.
s AINT 1.
Pleasant,Polite & friendly atmosphere. had no issues at all! Very thorough & professional, helpful staff .
G K.
Always on time, professional, and make me feel much more comfortable. The whole team also have great personalities and work extremely well together
Dorothy F.
Very professional & friendly staff!
Ardin M.
Quick check in. I didn't have to wait to be seen by the doctor. It was a thorough exam and all of my questions answered.
Christopher V.
Great office everyone very helpful and polite.I will recommend to everyone.
Willie H.
Quick and simple 😌
Sandra T.
First time at this location. Very nice office. When I asked questions Nicolle was very pleasant and explained everything thoroughly.Thank you, Noelle
boudy K.
Best medical care received from talented and experienced medical doctors, and their entrusted medical support team.
David O.
Minimal wait time both in lobby and exam room. Dr. Wille and staff are great!
Susan C.
Very pleasant and professional experience. Wouldn’t go anywhere else.
Gerald W.
I felt very at ease with my procedure.
Tonya T.
Dr. Bologna was great. Listen to my problems and we came up with a plan. Very happy with him.
Jason H.
Very positive experience from check in throughout the procedure.
Connie S.
The appt was on time & I felt my Doctor listened attentively & responded with applicable recommendations for me.
Kathy R.
The Dr. and staff at the macomb facility were very caring and helped make the procedure a less anxious one. There really wasn’t a wait time so I was in and out in no time!
Carolyn S.
Flexible appointment schedule. I was able to schedule a tele-health appointment in less than a week. The office staff was friendly, helpful and professional. Dr. Abadir I spoke to was knowledgeable and answered all of my questions. I would refer this practice to anyone looking for a gastroenterology doctor.
Rosemary H.
Dr. Donat is very kind and caring. He is always willing to listen. I always feel heard and that my health is his top priority. Thank you!
Jackie S.
Wow! The guidance and care from prep to finish by this facility, doctors and staff was top notch! I could on and on but each phase was handled with care and compassion. Highly recommend this facility and Dr. Desai !
Elinor S.
Dr. Wille and his staff are great! Taken in on time, given time with Dr to discuss my problem and treated with the utmost courtesy. Always my go to GI place!!
Teresa D.
Every person I dealt with at Center for Digestive Health was super nice! No complaints at all. On time. Fast and efficient!
linda D.
No real wait time...Dr. Desai was thorough and kind, was a good visit.
James W.
I love Dr. Donat. He is so friendly, nice and professional. He is an excellent Doctor. I had a great overall experience. I would refer a friend.
Irma D.
Great office staff very helpful
Emily B.
I had to leave this practice during covid because it was impossible to schedule an appointment, but I have had zero issues since. Great doctors are really hard to come by, and Dr. Nandi is the absolute best!! Staff was great, friendly, and thorough. Had colonoscopy with polypectomy and banding, and no issues afterwards! I'll be returning, and always highly recommend my GI to anyone that needs care!
angela B.
I am always pleased coming to get a procedure that mentally is uncomfortable yet, they make it ever so relaxing and comfortable. Everyone is always so pleasant, friendly and accommodating. Thank you so much🤗
Eric I.
Great service
Patrick K.
Excellent care by an outstanding staff!
David S.
Very impressed by the quality and professionalism of the staff!
K K
Great experience with staff and Dr. Bakken.
Anton A.
Great
Barbara B.
Dr. Khan is a person who knows her what she is doing. She's fast and passionate on people's needs.
Sam F.
Excellent communication about concerns, Dr and staff friendly, patient, and takes the time to listen to offer alternate treatment.
Cynthia F.
My visit was late my fault. I was to be seen around December but I should’ve come anyway. I saw the PA Kristen she listened to or read my troubles well I couldn’t see Dr.BAAKEN. to get some answers. I believe Kristen answered fine. I am Not going anywhere else.
Bree C.
I love having Dr nandi as my doctor, I've been with him for 11 years , also the staff in the infusion center connected with the office are amazing!The only complaint is waiting on hold for so long to get to talk to someone.
Vicki N.
Had the best experience possible. The staff is extraordinary and visit was extremely timely. Dr. Backend is also the best! Thank you.
Brad G
Very pleasant and informative staff. Dr was very nice, gave great explanation of what will be done and what to expect. Definitely recommend this office.
Viorica L.
I appreciate Dr Desaj
Sally H.
Dr John Weber is very thorough and good doctor. I feel well cared for. His whole staff was superb. We waited about an hour in the waiting room but the important part is about the quality of the procedure. Highly recommend.
Brian F.
All star Dr. and staff. From check in to departure.
alberto F.
Great service, the personnel is very professional and helpful .
Peter F.
Expertise, timeliness, care and friendliness.
Geraldine K.
Dr Bakker was very attentive. She listened to me and was very gentle with her examination. She made me feel very relaxed.
Cheryl N.
I saw Dr.Weber after being dissatisfied with my current GI doc and he was thee best…professional, knowledgeable, and reassuring. I immediately felt I was in good hands. Thank God I found this office.
Steve H.
They got me in quickly for my EGD and the process was quick and painless. Dr. Tocco and staff were awesome
Lori D.
My 19 Year old son had his first appointment there and we were in and out. Very pleasant, efficient and overall great experience
richard W.
Excellent job by everyone that I met.I recommend this place highly.
Susan K.
Taken care of right on time. Everyone involved was exceptionally nice. It was all very quick and efficient.
Mia D.
Dr Richard Wille is very knowledgeable, kind, and caring. He has been my doctor for over 12 years. I trust him completely with my gastrointestinal issues for treatment. He is the best!
Brandon R.
Dr Nandi is very good at what he does. I would recommend Macomb Endoscopy to anyone. Great team over there.Well done!!
Brandy H.
THE PEOPLE THERE WERE VERY UNDERSTANDING AND VERY VERY NICE TO ME!!!! THE NURSING STAFF WERE ABSOLUTELY CARING AND EFFICIENT!! IT WAS AN EXPERIENCE I WILL TREASUREAS LONG AS I LIVE!!!! THEY WERE WONDERFUL! THE DOCTOR WAS SO NICE!! I THINK THEY HAVE THE MONOPOLY ON "NICE NESS". HE WAS GREAT!! THEY TREATED ME LIKE I WAS A PRINCESS AND MY PASTOR ( WHO BROUGHT ME AND STAYED WITH ME UNTIL THE END OF THE PROCEDURE) LIKE A KING!! THEY WERE GREAT!! THEY MADE THE WHOLE PROCEDURE WORTH IT! I COULDN'T BE MORE GRATEFUL!! THANK YOU!
catherine M.
It was an easy, patient friendly experience. Questions could be addressed and answered because the PA had access to medical records and was informed
Jeanette M.
Saw Dr Willie NP and she was very professional and addressed my concerns. I would recommend Dr Willie and his staff
susan C.
Everyone was extremely polite and concerning. They all worked together to get their job done.
Jenny M.
Dr Bologna and staff are awesome super caring and efficient
Emily B.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: Dr. Nandi is the best! I couldn't recommend him any more highly than I already do to anyone that'll listen! He has been my provider for 14 years, and I've only good things to say! Great bedside manner, incredibly skilled, caring, honest, knowledgeable, and helpful! After my last upper endoscopy, I started a new medication, Voquezna, and I am already feeling a gazillion times better. The med is super expensive, but the man works miracles, and it's being home delivered for $50 a month. That was the cheapest option, which can be expensive, but I had some samples to try out, and honestly, my gut health is worth it!! I was miserable before!Update: My prescription got covered and it is less than half of what I was paying before! A v
Chrissy C.
Dr J. Weber is an amazing Doctor. I know I'm in good hands with him. He has been my physician for many years and has always given me the best care. His staff plays a big part in my care to they all are wonderful. My procedure went well I was very confident and comfortable with the care I received. Thank you.
Maciej C.
nice and profesional
Edward J.
Dr Bologna and his staff are great. When I was called back to get prepped everyone made me feel good and relaxed. Dr Bologna popped in to check on me and explained what he was going to do. As soon as I was ready the Anesthesiologist come in and wheeled me to the surgical room while making me feel comfortable. Dr Bologna and his team were ready for me. After my procedure I woke up back in my private recovery room. Amy, my nurse, made sure I was comfortable as she got me ready to leave. The doctor came in and we had a nice chat about what he discovered and next steps.I give the whole experience a 5 out 5.
richard H.
Excellent visit with Dr. Donat's PA Jennifer. Discussed medication and recent scan results with followup recommendations. Good conversation!
Bob P.
The staff at CDH were considerate, prompt and professional. No one looks forward to a colonoscopy but, the people who took care of me made it the best experience it could have been. Thank you!
Cindy
Dr. Wille is a very caring, compassionate doctor! He looks you in the eye instead of typing on his computer while you talk, that is so important to me, it shows me that he is LISTENING to me and cares what I have to say. To get an appointment to see him in the office takes awhile, that's how popular he must be. I can see why. That is my only negative that I have encountered. He was timely once it was my appointment time to see him. I appreciated that since so many doctor's have you sit for awhile in the exam room waiting for the doctor to walk in. I would recommend Dr. Wille to anyone looking for a knowledgeable, caring, and compassionate gastroenterologist. Thank you Dr. Wille!
Aziz B.
The doctor and staff are very professional and very friendly. They make the patient feel comfortable and worry free. Highly recommended.
Kim F.
Not that having a medical procedure is ever a fun thing but if you are in of one, this is the place to go. No delays and you couldn't ask for better people. Doctor, assistants and staff are Outstanding!
Kirk S.
Dr. Dunot is a great Dr. He is always very concerned about the way that you feel .
Johnny G.
Well run office, professional and conscientious Dr & staff
Cheryl B.
Dr Bakkan addressed all my questions and concerns satisfactorily and ordered a series of tests to address the issues discussed. She knows her stuff!
DONG J.
All Staff were excellent Doctor, Nurses (information communication) A++ thank you
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 !!
Dianna J.
Everyone was very congenial. All were very caring.A+++
Patty G.
Just had my colonoscopy done at this location. Everyone was very nice and helpful. I was able to get in and out in 1 hr and 15mins. Great staff!! Very easy!
Dominic A.
First,we seen the doctor on our appointment time.Second very friendly atmosphere n Third the doctor very open honest and professional.
Ramona A.
I had a positive experience from the point of making my appointment through the procedure. I received reminder information before the procedure, as well as a call the day after my procedure to check on how I was doing. Thanks for caring and taking pride in what you do for others.
Becky R.
DR WILLI AND HIS STAFF MADE ME FEEL VERY COMFORTABLE DURING MY OFFICE VISIT.
Angela R.
Amazing staff Dr Willie is amazing
Giovanni V.
Dr. Desai is a very humble, a
John D.
Every one was very friendly, I was seen on time and doctor Saeed was well prepared. This was my first visit and she had researched my record and was able to discuss my problem intelligently and was very pleasant .
Michael J. Pal 5.
I've been coming here for years. I've had 3 colonoscopies and, on 10/29/24 a flexible sigmoidoscopy. In January 2024 Dr. Sante Bologna removed a precancerous polyp from my colon and now I have a clean bill of health. He has undoubtedly extended my life. Dr. Bologna and his staff are very knowledgeable and professional. All of my procedures have been very good experiences. I highly recommend Troy Gastroenterology.
Suzette N.
I had a very good experience with all of the staff at the center. Everyone was friendly and the procedure went very smoothly.
Lisa C.
Love the girls at the WellPoint center
DeLano H.
Staff is A-1. Very helpful, explained everything about my procedure. It was my first time and I was nervous. Everyone reassured me these the hardest part was already over. You know what? They were right!! Great job👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👌🏽✌🏽
TLP
Everyone was so kind and efficient. From the nurses, to the anesthesiologist, to the doctor. They made an unpleasant situation so much nicer.
Taneity K.
My experience at the Center for Digestive Health was a very comfortable and thorough experience. The staff was professional and caring about my Healthcare. The procedure itself was efficient and timely. Thank you!
Marilyn T.
The entire staff was very professional and compassioned. I felt very comfortable with the medical professionals. I will be referring my family and friend's. Thank you goes out to all of those who we're assigned to me. Great job guy's!
Barbara D.
Appointment started on time and was completed in 15 minutes. Was very satisfied with my talk with the Dr. Wille. 👍😊
Guiseppe G.
Great staff, I would highly recommend to any one.
Carletta H.
My experience with Nicollet was very important information that was explained to me that made perfect sense that the others did not thank you, Nicollet, for connecting the dots for me
Anna Rita D.
Amazing ! Amazing staff!
Debbie C.
This is a very well run practice.Staff is kind and thorough!
Trisha S.
The office scheduled me promptly. And the procedure was done in a very timely manner. Everyone from the nurse, nurse anesthetist, the doctor were are kind and professional
Andrzej S.
Dr Bologna and his staff are friendly and professional. They listen are knowledgable and caring. Would highly recommend
Barbara F.
Very caring and professional practice.
Tim S.
Very helpful.
Susan M.
Dr. DeSai, Suzanne and staff provide excellent care.
Jim S.
Excellent experience. Everyone was friendly.
Winnie C.
Debbie went out of her way to help me get an appointment with Dr. Abadir set up. All of the staff we encountered were pleasant, helpful, and competent. Dr. Abadir listened and provided a plan to address my husband's issues.
PETER C.
Very good center, and I would recommend them to any one who needs a good Dr 👌
Larry B.
Always a wonderful experience. Kind and considerate.
Stephanie M. P.
Dr. Quallich and the entire staff are amazing and have such a great bedside manner. Very thankful for their compassion, attentiveness and professionalism!
Carol R.
Everyone is so kind and helpful. Wonderful care.
Marty A.
Everyone was very welcoming and professional. The nurses and techs were very polite and enjoyable to be around. I was treated very well.
Kristin L.
Team is amazing. Friendly, efficient, caring and knowledgeable
David T.
Waiting time was fantastic. They took me in before i could finsh my paperwork. Dr. Saeed os magnificent
yooperpaul1
I found the facility to be very well run. Dr. Nandy is very thorough.
Romee M.
Great experience with Dr. Wille. A great listener. Amazing doctor. The stafff were too good too. Thanks.
Mike M.
Dr. Desai was very thorough, took care of my wife and I.
Gail K.
I arrived at the Center and was let right in to receive my osteoporosis injection. Nurse was friendly, got my injection and was on my way in less than 10 minutes..
Judith H.
Doctor was on time and staff was proficient..
Mary P.
Staff was courteous, friendly, and helpful. Dr. Nandi took time to explain the reason for recommending procedures and answered all of my questions. I instantly felt at ease due to his kind and friendly demeanor. No one looks forward to endoscopy or colonoscopy procedures and I am no exception. There is no one I would trust more to perform these diagnostic procedures than Dr. Nandi.
Joseph N.
I hold the highest regard for the best Dr and Gastro med office. Best people- best results. Dr Willie is as genuine as they come. Professional thorough and relatable care we all desire.
Mary L.
The Physician's Assistant, Noelle, was incredibly personable and knowledgeable and took the time to answer all my questions. I would highly recommend Troy Gastroenterology,
David K.
Center for Digestive Health is an outstanding medical office! They are thorough, knowledgeable and empathetic.
Heather R.
The staff here are so professional and friendly!
Sherry A.
Professional, kind staff. The waiting room was deceptive. Many people thought I'd be waiting a long time. In by nine, out by 11:00. Prep was the most difficult thing in a colonoscopy.
JUDY T.
Everyone is so friendly and helpful. Dr. Willie is the greatest. He is so kind and concerned about your issues. I would recommend him to anyone.
Lois W.
The employees of the center for digestive health in Troy Michigan are very professional and very friendly. I was made to feel very at ease, I was a new patient and I left there feeling absolutely great. I appreciate everyone’s friendliness and professionalism.
Donna M.
Everyone at the center was wonderful to me. Everything went smoothly efficiently, and I was over and done with quickly. Dr bologna came in to see me afterwards and I was on my way. Thank you for a great experience!
Shannon E.
Everyone was professional and kind. Things were done in a timely manner also. Everything was explained well, so I felt quite comfortable.
Jerry W.
From check in to check out, amazing staff, great “bedside manners” for a guy that had never been through the procedure. Reduced my anxiety by the way they treat the patient! Dr Balogna took time to explain things. Much appreciated!
John K.
All the nurses are very informative and kind, would recommend this facility to everyone.
Beth M.
Awesome experience!!! Professional, friendly, comforting!!!! I was so nervous and every single person I encountered was wonderful… Thank you!!!😊
Patricia B.
such great treatment and great listening skills offered great solutions for now until they do the scope to get the entire picture . i felt in good hands with Nurse Practitioner Nicolette Vanmaldeghem
Susan B.
Very prompt. My appointment was 4.15pm and I was in the examining room by 4.10 and talking with the doctor by 4.15pm. Scheduling for an upcoming procedure was quickly completed. The entire staff from receptionist, medical assistant and procedure scheduler were great: Pleasant, thorough and efficient. Dr. Donat was very caring and explained everything to my complete satisfaction.
Charity D.
Dr. Khan is so knowledgable and caring.
Lori L.
Excellent! This staff was very helpful. I highly recommend this medical team!
Adam D.
Great staff interaction from check in, through the procedure and recovery. Everyone was very friendly and made me feel comfortable through every step.
Veronica
Very pleased with my medical visit. Very professional and friendly.
Mary P.
Lisa at check in was very sweet and helpful. The nurse that took care of me and prepped me for surgery was wonderful also. Actually everybody was and my procedure was on time. Thank you!
Dan J.
The staff were very courteous and professional. I think Dr. Toco is an excellent doctor.
Gjon D.
Dr.Donat is a pro. He listens and cares.Hard to find. Keep up the good work.
Kathy O.
I had a great office visit with Dr Willi’s NP today. She was very thorough, explained everything to me, and she was very patient with my multiple questions.
Rosemary P.
Dr. Wille and his staff are always kind and welcoming.
Leland T.
The sraff were professional but friendly.My appointment was prompt.Dr KahnWas great and was easy to talk with.Very good experience.
Josie C.
Dr Willie and staff are welcoming and kind. My colonoscopy was on time and everyone professional and caring. Dr, Willie has the best bedside manner of any doctor I’ve ever known. I’m an anxious patience but did not feel that way due to the professionalism and kindness of all the staff . They answered all my questions and made sure to help me in any way if needed after procedure. A nurse even called me when I got home to see how I was feeling.Highly recommend Dr. Willie!!
Linda R.
The Endoscopy Center is wonderful. From Check in to discharge, it is well oiled machine of efficiency. Dr. Willey is the most caring Doctor and puts you at ease from the moment you're in the operating room.
elaine S.
Appointment on time and assistant was very efficient and pleasant.
sandra G.
I highly recommend this practice! Very professional, efficient, and the staff and Dr. Donat made the whole process easy. They care and take great care of you!!
marlixta
Been seeing Dr Bologna for several years of my colonoscopies and GERD. He is very nice and explains everything .
Michelle S.
The staff were welcoming and professional. Dr. John Weber was very helpful and knowledgeable. My husband and I feel that we are going to do well under Dr. Webers care.
Margaret M.
Friendly, efficient and competent. Very satisfied!
Henry R.
Dr. Wille is the best. Very knowledgeable and personable. Takes time to explain everything and answer all my questions. Thanks!
Marie V.
I have been seeing Dr. Bologna for various reasons over the course of the past 25 years. He is kind and takes time to listen to a detailed medical history, and in fact, wants to know the complete story of what is going on with my health. He is a great diagnostitian and I have highly recommended him to family and friends.
Robert Shefferly (.
Office staff if very friendly and professional. My appointment was on time with Dr. Willie who is down to earth and take this time with you.
Marcy R.
Prep information and directions were clear and reviewed with me ahead of time. They gave me contact information if I had questions during and prior to prep. Excellent experience overall, knowledgeable team, kind warm and welcoming upon arrival and throughout. The check in Staff, spoke to me right away, very efficient and kind. Staff all made me feel as comfortable as possible in an uncomfortable situation. They got me in and out within a very reasonable time frame, little to no waiting. Dr. Willie was very friendly and had great bed side manners. Dr. Ben (anesthesiologist) was very comforting and explained everything well. My husband and I will refer our friends and family for their gastrointestinal needs. Great news, I don't have to return for 10 years, they were able to rule out my primary physicians possible concerns. I plan on returning to this location when needed. A special thank you to the entire team, including the guy with the super fun hair in the procedure room (sorry I didn't get your name)!
Susan P.
Very prompt, professional and courteous from the check in procedure to the check out process!
Janice K.
I had a great experience everyone was so nice and professional. I would recommend Dr. Bakken to anyone.
Tom V.
Nicolette was very easy to talk to and was very knowledgeable in this field. I was able to get an appointment for a procedure a week later.
Curtis W.
Flawless painless experience. Staff and Physician were absolutely incredible. A perfect experience with top notch professionals. Thank you all!😇🙂😊
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4.7
Based on 4148 reviews
review us on
Margaret M.
Margaret M.
Friendly, efficient and competent. Very satisfied!
Marty A.
Marty A.
Everyone was very welcoming and professional. The nurses and techs were very polite and enjoyable to be around. I was treated very well.
Jim F.
Jim F.
professional , efficient, expert, in all 3 phases : pre-procedure, procedure, post-procedure.
Janice K.
Janice K.
I had a great experience everyone was so nice and professional. I would recommend Dr. Bakken to anyone.
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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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