Submucosal Lesions

Submucosal lesions are growths that are found under the body’s mucosal layer. In many cases, they do not cause symptoms, so they are discovered accidentally when a doctor is performing an endoscopy for another reason.

There are several types of submucosal lesions. One type is a gastrointestinal stromal tumor, which is usually found in the stomach or small intestine. Leiomyomas are benign tumors typically located in the distal portion of the esophagus, and lipomas are benign, fatty tumors located anywhere within the gastrointestinal tract. There are other rare forms of submucosal lesions, such as granular cell tumors, typically found in the esophagus or oropharynx or duplication cysts, which are rare birth defects usually occurring in the colon, ileum, or esophagus.

Are submucosal lesions cancerous?

While submucosal lesions are often benign or non-cancerous, some of them can become malignant. For example, about 10 percent of gastrointestinal stromal tumors are cancerous. Granular cell tumors can also be malignant.

Are submucosal lesions painful?

In many cases, submucosal lesions are asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause noticeable symptoms. While this is true, submucosal lesions can occasionally cause unpleasant symptoms, especially if they are large.

How are submucosal lesions treated?

Treatment depends upon the type of lesion and whether it is cancerous or causing symptoms. Small lesions and those that are asymptomatic typically do not require treatment, but a doctor may monitor them for complications. If a submucosal lesion is causing painful symptoms, a doctor may surgically remove them. Surgical resection or excision or fine needle aspiration are treatment options for problematic submucosal lesions. Surgical resection is typically the treatment of choice for cancerous lesions.

Common Symptoms

  • “I had abdominal pain and suffered from bowel obstruction with a gastrointestinal stromal tumor.”
  • “I had stomach pain along with vomiting and difficulty swallowing.”
  • “I experienced stomach pain along with bouts of diarrhea.”

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What They Are Saying

JoAnn M.
I seen Noelle she was very good I was pleased with her answers and the test she had me do.
Debbie M.
Always professional and clean facilities. Roger was my pre-op nurse and was fantastic! Dr. Weber is exceptional. Wouldn't trust anyone else.
Debbie C.
This office is run professional with friendly patient care. My call out to Amy, Nick, Jorden, Nicole, and Dr. Tocco. They all treated me with gentle respectful care. During my prep stage (which is the unpleasant part) I had some questions and called the office. Sherrie answered all of my questions and helped calm an advance middle aged lady down! You guys are the best!
Marylou M.
Very nice and pleasant doctor. Didn't have to wait, my appointment was on time.
Claudia S.
Dr. Bakken is extremely professional, and knowledgeable regarding Celiac disease. She listens carefully to my concerns and is very proactive in providing any help. I feel confident I am in good hands!
Carol M.
Very friendly staff.
Connie O.
Muy buenos días les agradezco muchísimo por sus atenciones puedo recomendar éste hospital ya que cada persona que trabaja en el mismo fueron muy amables conmigo y también darle al Dr Nandy por su ayuda y apoyo en mi estudio de colonoscopia es muy bueno como gastrointestinal y también cabe recalcar que es un ser humano que sabe tratar a sus pacientes como si fueran parte de su familia con toda mi gratitud les doy las gracias por ser tan especial conmigo bendiciones los estaré visitando el año que viene ya que el trato brindado fue excelente y también darles las gracias a todas las personas que estuvieron con el Doctor en su intervención: saludos 🤗
Lisa S.
Dr Nandi and his staff are amazing I wouldn’t go anywhere else
Linda S.
Dr Webber is the best. His nurses are wonderful too!
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.
Chuck C.
Everyone in the office was extremely helpful and wanted to make sure I was taken care of. When my appointment was over and I needed to schedule a follow up it was fast and efficient and I should mention that the doctor was on time!!!
Norm T.
Very professional, everyone was pleasant and explained in detail everything that was going to transpire. I felt very comfortable and the procedures went faster than expected.
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.
cathy T.
I couldn't of been more pleased with the front desk and all of the support staff at the Center for Digestive Health/Surgical Center. They were both professional and personable. They made me feel vey comfortable. I had very little wait from the moment I arrived . I believe I was in and out within 60 minutes or so.
Jeanette Y.
Excellent caring staff, timely appointments. I felt they knew my history well and made good care options.
Kim K.
Dr. Willie is kind, caring and very knowledgeable I enjoyed my appointment with him. He explains the problem and also follows through with a follow up visit. You feel definitely at ease with Dr. Willie.
Sherri G.
Dr. Nandi is truly amazing! He makes you feel completely at ease, listens carefully to your needs, and explains everything in a way that’s easy to understand. For the first time, I feel comfortable and confident about having a colonoscopy, I’m actually looking forward to my procedure and will follow up to share my experience.

Dr. Nandi and his team genuinely care about their patients, and it shows in every interaction. He takes the time to discuss your health thoroughly and works with you to create a clear plan for moving forward. The staff is equally wonderful, so friendly, kind, and supportive.

I’m very grateful for Dr. Nandi and his entire team. Their compassion and dedication make all the difference!
John B.
They made my day. Took great care to get us checked in, prepped in a private area, friendly staff and informative. They were actually ahead of schedule, when does that happen in a doctor’s office? Done in no time flat and escorted to our vehicle to make sure we could safely head out for a much needed breakfast. Great work from the entire team.
Mike T.
I have had to receive 3 different procedures and all 3 have been great experiences. This facility runs very efficiently!! Thank you.
Rudy A.
I've been with dr Weber for a couple of years already.
He gave me an excellent impression, not only for his professionalism, but also for his patience to explain things and his very friendly attitude.
One of those people that, from the first instant, you feel you know him from ever.
Carrie V.
Quick, efficient and pleasant
Kaylene B.
They got me in fast and Very nice Doctor
Nathan W.
Check in process was easy and efficient! My procedure went with out a hitch & I was made very comfortable which eased any nerves I had.
Larry T.
My appointment with Jennifer was informative and professional.
Pauline F.
My appointment was with Dr. bologna he took his time with me. He wasn’t in any rush. He explained everything so I understood was very impressed with him and he put me at ease. I highly recommend him.
Martha A.
I was pleased with Nicolette’s professionalism.
Darlene H
Easy in & easy out, no having to wait 1/2 hour to see the doctor.
jacque M.
Just an excellent professional experience from start to finish!
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
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.
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.
Ulrike H.
Very nice staff, on time and no problems during or after procedure.
Francisco N.
Appointment was on time. Dr. Willie’s PA bright, attentive , professional.
Judith P.
Everyone was most friendly. helpful, and knowledgeable.
Joan P.
Everything was perfect. I had to change my appointment due to an upcoming unexpected surgery. The receptionist truly helped to move my appointment up, able to see doctor prior to surgery. Very short wait upon arrival. A nice assistant asked a few questions prior to seeing Dr. Nandi. As always, all of my questions were answered, treated with kindness & a feeling of comfort. Thankful for my care.
tina K.
Very professional place I had procedure at macomb office excellent service from start to finish
John G.
Everything was great
Janet G.
Everyone had there place and did it very well, all kind and compassionate, and Dr Bologna. Thank You Everyone
Sumead58 D.
Everyone was very nice, friendly and professional. From the person checking me in to the person who walked with me to the car after the procedure. I highly recommend this center for a colonoscopy.
DENNIS M.
Easy Appointment with physician assistant, who is capable and knowledgeable about my medical history and needs.
Sara S
Dr. Webber is a breath of fresh air!! He listens and wants to help! So nice and helpful! Recommend Dr. Webber!
toddmarone99
Idr. Nandy was awesome and explaining what my results were and explaining what the next steps were. He was very easy to understand and I’m very thankful that I got him to do my procedure.
Patricia R.
I have had many procedures and Dr Weber is one of best. I have been placed on Palliative care because of all my health issues. Dr Weber still cares and takes the time to offer encouragement. I carry that encouragement with me and am grateful for his kindness.
Doug S.
Had a very good experience for the colonoscopy proceedeure I went thru , the hardest was just the prep
Ellen M.
Seen quickly and issuse addressed
Barbara D.
Appointment started on time and was completed in 15 minutes. Was very satisfied with my talk with the Dr. Wille. 👍😊
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.
Pamathi J.
After a few virtual appointments, my mom had her first in person appointment with Dr. Nandi. He was very respectful and patiently listened to our concerns. We felt very comfortable and left knowing exactly the next steps to take. We had a good experience.
Thomas A L.
very nice and helpful staff awesome Doctors, and PA. very caring and concerning about the problem.
Lawrence W.
Excellent and carefully focused treatment
Leeann P.
Staff and Dr Bologna were professional and pleasant ! I have never had any issues with him or his staff!
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
John M.
Great!
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!
April S.
Dr Quallich and the staff are very friendly and helpful. Explained everything so that I could understand. I highly recommend this Dr.
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.
Terry D.
As usual, everything was done perfectly. The staff is just marvelous. The doctor of course is very good excellent and it's not much to say there's everything was perfect thank you very much.
S.
Efficient and got me in fast.
Terry C.
Excellent staff and Doctor Donat. Easy, effective and timely assistance and procedures.
John J.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Took good care of me.
Robert H.
The Doctor is very thorough and always has a smile.
Sheila M.
I was taken in very quickly, treated with respect and given excellent care. All caregivers were pleasant and professional.
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!
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.
Marvin B.
On time, cordial, pleasant and painless. Very caring of patient and spouse and organized.
Christine P.
Working with this practice was smooth and easy. From booking to my escorted walk to my ride, everyone was kind and friendly. Appointment was timely and efficient.
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.
Mark G
Staff was extremely friendly from start to finish. I was very comfortable. Wish I could give more than 5 stars.
bernard G.
Doctor was very knowledgeable and advised me what he thinks is the best treatment for me .
Christel W.
Dr. Donat is amazing doctor as well the staff. I will travel just keep him as my doctor
Theresa O.
As a new patient, I found everyone helpful, knowledgeable and kind. 😊
Joann K.
excellent experience with PA Noelle. very thorough andd good advice.
Kimmy K
Very kind staff and knowledgeable doctor and anestisiologist. Waited about 30 minutes after my appointment time to be seen, but they were very busy. Other than that, everything we t well and I left with information related to the outcome of the test.
Lynn
Everyone was so nice from check in to walking me out to my car!
Beverly St P.
The Center for Digestive Health makes having an EGD or Colonoscopy procedure as easy as possible. The staff is very professional and Dr. Donat is the best!
Mary B.
Very efficient overall.
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.
Candice H.
This is my second procedure with Dr. Donat at this facility. My first was an endoscopy to diagnose Celiac and second was routine Colonoscopy. Both experiences were very positive. I drove further from my home to see Dr. Donat as opposed to the group and center close by. I had a previous negative experience with a doctor at another practice who missed my celiac disease after several months of visits including a Colonoscopy that Dr Donat was able to diagnose quickly and accurately. His demeanor, personality and expertise are what every patient wants in a doctor and the drive is worth it to me. And the surgical center even though it was extremely busy is ran by caring staff with order and efficiency. Superb care I can’t recommend highly enough.
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.
Jim S.
The Team, everyone at Digestive Health, is fantastic. I fully recommend them to everyone.
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!!!
CE U.
On time and very efficient
patrick F.
The PA was very knowledgeable and treated me like I was her only patient for the day.
Edie P.
Professional and on time
Kathy Y.
Kind, caring, professional.
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.
Phebe H.
Very good experience. Everyone was very professional and helpful.
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.
Michela T.
This surgery center is extremely timely and every person I encountered was very pleasant and professional. It's obviously a place where everyone enjoys where they work and promotes a culture of caring and kindness.
Tami B.
Great patient care. Very comforting. Very good at sharing knowledge about the procedure I was going to have. The nurses that did my onboarding were excellent!
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.
Nalisa F.
I received optimum care from the receptionist to my departure care nurse. I totally love and trust Dr. Bakken as she gave me comfort before and after my procedure. This was a calming experience that I will never forget.
Thank you all, especially Roger!
Jennifer S.
The nurses were compassionate and professional. I was the first appointment of the day and they ensured that I had an efficient and timely care. Dr.Willie was warm and spent time speaking with me prior to the procedure. It helped reduce the anxiety I was experiencing.
gust L.
Very polite and comfortable atmosphere and knowledgeable professional doctors ❤️
Alicia J.
The staff was very nice and friendly 🙂
Michael Y.
Great staff and Dr Willie is the best
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
Louis H.
Very kind ,courteous & professional
Diane F.
Office staff are pleasant & Dr Donat is an excellent physician. He always takes the time to explain every detail of medical conditions and procedures
Pamela B.
Great communication, thorough, efficient - patient centered. Overall very good experience of care!
Ken H.
Everything ran smoothly and efficiently from start to finish. In addition, everyone was friendly and kind.
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.!
Larry O
Excellent procedure. No issues
Robert U.
Courteous professional staff and capable experts.
Yesmain R.
Roger was undoubtedly the best nurse experience I’ve ever encountered!!
mark H.
Best place to go , very nice, very helpful, very knowledgeable, I will go nowhere else, dr Willy is the best
A S
Good office environment, professional and friendly staff.
Bill G.
Dr Balogna is the best! Very knowledgeable and understanding. That's what makes a good doctor.
Steve C.
Staff was professional, caring, and polite.
YAIRA S.
Dr. Jack Tocco is truly exceptional!
From the moment I walked into his office, I felt heard, respected, and genuinely cared for. He took the time to listen to my complex medical history, asked thoughtful questions, and explained everything in a way that was easy to understand. He never made me feel rushed or dismissed — instead, I felt like I had a true partner in my care.

His knowledge, professionalism, and kindness stood out immediately. I left the appointment feeling more confident and hopeful than I’ve felt in a long time. If you’re looking for a GI doctor who actually takes the time to understand YOU as a person and not just a list of symptoms, Dr. Tocco is the one. Highly, highly recommend!
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!!
Nancy K.
I was taken in immediately. Everyone was very friendly and professional as well as attentive.
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!
Kathleen E.
He was nice doctor for helping my husband problem.
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.
Michael J.
Great staff and service.
Antoinette D.
I was so nervous on my day for my endoscope and colonoscopy. I'll tell you what the best I've ever felt is when I went there very knowledgeable very good and my doctor was fabulous. The nurses were fabulous. And Dr.Donat phenomenal I'm glad I went. Thank you for all you did for me. I would definitely recommend this office for anything.
Dawn P.
Always have a great experience the staff is considerate,professional & they all care. I see Noelle she's the best!!
John K.
Everyone at the Center was courteous and helpful. I would recommend the Center without reserve.
Mona B.
Love Dr. Bakken.
Jere R.
Prompt. Professional. Extremely Friendly. Caring. Doctor explained what was done, next steps and follow-up visit.
Kathleen B.
From start to finish, Macomb Center for Digestive Health staff and Dr Willie were a 5 star group. Concerns I had were put at ease and even service post procedure was excellent. I won’t go anywhere else for my ‘innards’!
Jennie C.
Great first experience. My appointment was on time and the doctor answered all my questions. The staff was very friendly and helpful.
Lori L.
Everything and everyone was terrific!
Peter S.
Love this place. Dr Bologna is excellent and my whole family goes to him. Office staff is wonderful too… keep it up
robyn G.
Love Dr Balonga and Margaret!
Sharyn C.
Staff very friendly & helpful. Love Dr. Wille
Amanda P.
Everything was like a well oiled machine. From check-in to discharge super efficient.
Robert W.
Dr. Tocco is excellent in his work ethics and bedside manners. Very pleased with him and being young !
Rod P.
Dr willie is the best
Rick S.
The entire staff was courteous and made my visit as comfortable as possible. Also, I’m enjoying reading his “Ask Dr. Nandi” book.
elizabeth Z.
Nicolette the PA is amazing! 🤩 So appreciate her time and courtesy while listening. She goes above and beyond!
Tracy K.
A wonderful experience - compassionate and caring team.
Gary N.
Everyone was very efficient and professional.
Susan V.
Dr Balogna and the entire staff were professional and helpful.
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.
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.
Ceci G.
Staff very knowledgeable. Dr. Bakken always take time to talk to you and doesn't make you feel rushed.
Patti S.
From the minute you enter, everyone is professional and friendly. The nursing staff is exceptional and, of course, Dr. Nandi is the best!
M A
My experience very good, from check in to check out. Didn't have to wait long for my procedure. Dr Wille and the staff were great. Everything was explained and all my questions were answered.
Dawn N.
I love love this office and the staff. I personally have been a patient of Dr. Emin Donat since my early 20's. I am now turning 50 this September. He is so kind and caring. His patients are priority. He is so kind. Willing to listen and address your problems. He never makes you feel like he needs to rush onto the next patient. If you need to have any Gi issues addressed go see my friends at the Center For Digestive Health. Anyone of the Doctors are amazing.
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
Kathy K.
Everyone there was very friendly, reassuring and made me feel comfortable and more relaxed about my 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).
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.
Michael K.
Courteous staff.promptly saw me and listen to my concerns. Provider was attentive.
Marcia L.
My appointment was for 3:30 . At 3:33 my name was called. Dr. Willie and his staff are the best.
Sherry R.
Dr Willie and the surgical center staff were wonderful. Very efficient, respectful, and kind. Have been there before and will continue to use them when necessary.
Stephanie P.
Dr. B was very helpful and thorough
Tim H
Doctor and staff were very efficient. Appointment was quick. I was in and out in about 25min. I would recommend Doctor.
Leo W.
Very, very professional. Dr. Weber is one of the nicest doctors I have along with his staff.
D A
Professional without being too ridged, which makes patients feel comfortable
Kit D.
Very professionally run. Is now my go to gastroenterologist. PA very knowledgeable and very pleasant.
T. M.
I recommend Dr.Bakken and the staff very highly.
Leah B.
I had my first colonoscopy recently done at the CDM. All the staff were very friendly and accommodating- from registration, to nurses, to the doctor, etc. I would recommend this facility to anyone. 10/10
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.
asmahan R.
Very professional and knowledgeable
Mark S.
The home prep for the procedure I had lis unpleasant, but that is not the fault of Dr. Weber and his awesome team. From check in to checkout, they are all very organized, timely, have great bedside manners and are awesome communicators. The facility was modern and very clean. I felt well taken care by a staff that really cares. Thanks!
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.
Kay R.
Always a good experience. Doctors and nurses are kind, friendly ,answer questions you have and take the time with you. You never feel rushed. They always have your best interest at heart
Missy P.
They are so nice and really took care of me when I was there.
Deb M.
I was seen quickly. I have to go back after blood work but Dr Nandi was thorough
Kelly H.
During a stressful time, Dr. Quallich and CDH staff ALWAYS does an outstanding and exemplary thorough job every time! Thank you!
Mike M.
The entire team was a delight to work with
Valerie P.
Positive experience during a not so pleasant to go though screening.
The staff was over the top nice and made me feel comfortable.
Maricela O.
Excelente atención en todos los aspectos, desde las instrucciones para mi procedimiento, la atención de todo el personal, la atención del doctor…… todo EXCELENTE
Elaine D.
Very pleased with everyone involved in my procedure. They were kind, friendly and very informative and caring.
Barbara M.
Every one was caring and prepared me for the colonoscopy with their clear instructions. The recovery room was pleasant and not rushed
and was a good experience.
JJRYAN W.
Every staff member including the Doctor was exceptionally! They made you feel comfortable and safe. They all spoke with a positive smile in their tone.
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.
Ron J.
Great visit, they went through my medical history very positive
asmahan R.
Very professional and caring. Thank you.
robyn G.
Love Dr Balonga and Margaret!
Ellen M.
Seen quickly and issuse addressed
Kelly H.
During a stressful time, Dr. Quallich and CDH staff ALWAYS does an outstanding and exemplary thorough job every time! Thank you!
Bill G.
Dr Balogna is the best! Very knowledgeable and understanding. That's what makes a good doctor.

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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