Gastroenterologists in southwest Virginia

The digestive health specialists at LewisGale Regional Health System treat a wide range of diseases and conditions of the gastrointestinal tract—the stomach, intestines, esophagus, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, colon and rectum. With accurate diagnoses and advanced treatment methods, we help you feel better, stay disease-free and quickly get back to your daily routine.

To learn more about the gastroenterology services offered at LewisGale Regional Health System contact our Consult-A-Nurse® team at (877) 242-2362.

Digestive health conditions we treat

Our team of dedicated specialists work together to deliver skilled, comprehensive gastrointestinal care using the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies. At LewisGale Regional Health System, you have access to a network of specialized services for a range of gastrointestinal conditions from gallbladder disorders to Crohn's disease.

Gastrointestinal imaging and testing services

LewisGale Regional Health System offers a number of specialized imaging tests for examining and diagnosing conditions of the digestive tract. Digestive testing provides your physician with crucial information to accurately diagnose gastrointestinal disorders and determine the most effective treatment options.

We offer the following types of digestive tests:

  • High-resolution esophageal manometry with impedance—For diagnosing disorders of the esophagus
  • High-resolution anorectal manometry with impedance—For diagnosing disorders of the rectum
  • 24-hour pH monitoring—For diagnosing the type of reflux (heartburn or other esophageal disorders)
  • Esophageal capsule endoscopy (PillCam™)—To observe esophageal bleeding
  • Small bowel capsule endoscopy (PillCam™)—To observe bleeding and detect several diseases, such as Crohn’s disease

Upper endoscopy (upper GI)

An upper endoscopy procedure visually examines the esophagus (throat), stomach and upper part of the small intestine. Various gastrointestinal problems—such as pain in the stomach or abdomen, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, indigestion, tumors or ulcers—can be investigated with an upper endoscopy. Endoscopy can also be used for some treatments, such as removing polyps or taking tissue samples for analysis.

An upper endoscopy is a simple outpatient procedure. After scheduling an appointment at a LewisGale Regional Health System facility, you’ll receive detailed instructions on how to prepare for your procedure.

Colon cancer care

Colon cancer, one of many types of gastrointestinal cancer, is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. Colon cancer generally manifests no symptoms in the early stages and a colon screening is the only way to detect this cancer.

Colonoscopy screening

If detected early, colon cancer is 90 to 95 percent treatable. The most effective prevention against colon cancer is knowledge, early detection and treatment. Current guidelines suggest adults 50 years old and older receive colon cancer screenings, by way of colonoscopy.

Your primary care physician can refer you to a LewisGale Regional Health System location and schedule an appointment for you. Medicare and most insurance plans cover colon cancer screenings for individuals 50 years old and older.

How is a colonoscopy performed?

During a colonoscopy, a doctor uses a lighted, flexible scope with a tiny camera inside that can view the entire length of the colon. This allows the doctor to see any signs of trouble that may be developing. If polyps are discovered, they can be removed immediately with another tiny instrument inside the scope.

The entire procedure usually takes less than half an hour. Patients are given a moderate sedative, and, because of advances in technology, the procedure is generally painless.

What to expect with a colonoscopy

Before your colonoscopy—The day before your colonoscopy, you’ll need to completely clean out your colon so the doctor will have an unobstructed view of its surface. Doctors use several different types of preparation for cleansing the colon, and your doctor can help you decide which is best for you. It may be slightly uncomfortable, but all of these preparations are generally well-tolerated.

We suggest you eat light, easily digestible foods for several days before your colonoscopy.

After your colonoscopy—As soon as the sedation wears off, your physician will discuss your results with you. If any polyps were removed, they will be sent to the lab for a biopsy for evaluation, and the final results will be available in a few days. If colon cancer is detected, it’s good to know that, when detected early, colon cancer is very curable.

Colorectal surgery

The colon and rectal surgery program at LewisGale Regional Health System provides the best services for preventing, detecting and treating disorders of the colon, rectum and anus.

Our program is led by highly trained colorectal physicians, nurses and other staff. Together our expert team provides:

  • The highest level of care for colon and rectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, polyps, diverticulitis, constipation, fecal incontinence, hemorrhoids and other conditions
  • Advanced technology, new therapies and minimally invasive surgeries to provide the best screening and treatment for colon cancer
  • Laparoscopic colon surgeries that use smaller incisions, resulting in faster recovery times

To ensure comfortable, compassionate care during your visit, we also provide a colon and rectal program coordinator who provides support and education to patients before, during and after surgery.