Board Certified Specialists in Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease | Pay Bill | Patient Portal
advanced evaluation & treatment
We provide a full spectrum of specialized services to address your digestive health needs. From routine screenings to advanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, our team is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a wealth of expertise to ensure the highest standard of care. Explore our comprehensive range of services designed to support your gastrointestinal health at every stage of life.
A colonoscopy is a vital procedure for the early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer. During this examination, our gastroenterologists use a flexible tube with a camera to view the interior of your colon and rectum. This allows for the identification and removal of polyps before they become cancerous. Newest guidelines from the American Cancer Society recommend people at average risk of colorectal cancer start regular screening at age 45. High-risk individuals, such as those with a family history of colon cancer and other conditions, should begin screening earlier at age 40.
EGD, or Upper Endoscopy, is a procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of the small intestine. This procedure is essential for diagnosing issues such as acid reflux, ulcers, and other upper gastrointestinal disorders. It allows our specialists to take biopsies and treat certain conditions on the spot.
ERCP combines endoscopy and X-ray technology to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the bile ducts, pancreas, and gallbladder. It is particularly useful for identifying blockages, stones, and tumors. ERCP can also be used to place stents or remove stones from the bile duct, providing both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits.
Small Bowel Enteroscopy is a procedure used to explore and treat conditions within the small intestine. This procedure allows for the detection of sources of bleeding, tumors, or inflammatory conditions that are not visible through standard endoscopy or colonoscopy. It’s an essential tool for diagnosing obscure gastrointestinal bleeding and other small bowel conditions.
This specialized endoscopy is focused on the biliary and pancreatic ducts. It’s an advanced technique used to diagnose and manage conditions such as bile duct stones, strictures, and pancreatic duct disorders. It allows for precise intervention, including stone removal and stent placement, improving outcomes for complex biliary and pancreatic conditions.
Video Capsule Endoscopy involves swallowing a small, pill-sized camera that captures images of your digestive tract as it moves through. This technology is particularly useful for examining the small intestine, where traditional endoscopy may not reach. It’s an invaluable tool for diagnosing sources of bleeding, Crohn’s disease, and other small bowel conditions.
Esophageal Manometry measures the pressure and muscle contractions in your esophagus as you swallow. This test is crucial for diagnosing conditions like achalasia, GERD, and other motility disorders that affect how food moves from the esophagus to the stomach. It provides detailed information to guide effective treatment plans.
The Hydrogen Breath Test is a simple, non-invasive procedure used to diagnose conditions like lactose intolerance and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). By measuring the amount of hydrogen in your breath after consuming specific sugars, we can identify how well your digestive system is functioning and pinpoint issues that may be causing symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) is a technique used to remove large polyps, tumors, or other abnormal tissues from the gastrointestinal tract without surgery. This minimally invasive procedure is crucial for treating pre-cancerous lesions in the digestive tract, allowing for effective treatment with minimal recovery time.
Our Infusion Center provides specialized infusion therapies for patients with various gastrointestinal conditions, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and other inflammatory disorders. The center offers a comfortable environment where patients receive personalized care from our experienced medical team.
At Gastroenterology Associates, we proudly offer FibroScan, the latest non-invasive technology for assessing liver health. This painless procedure measures liver stiffness and fat levels, providing valuable information about conditions such as fatty liver disease, fibrosis, and other liver-related issues. The scan takes only 5 to 10 minutes, with results available immediately, allowing for timely and personalized treatment. The key benefits of FibroScan include:
FibroScan is FDA-cleared and aids in early detection of liver conditions, enabling lifestyle changes or treatments that can help prevent further liver damage. Schedule your FibroScan today to take charge of your liver health.
Gastroenterology Associates offers Bravo Reflux Testing, a cutting-edge diagnostic tool for patients experiencing chronic acid reflux (GERD) or heartburn. This minimally invasive test measures and records the acidity (pH) levels in the esophagus over a 48 to 96-hour period, providing crucial data for evaluating reflux symptoms. The test is catheter-free, offering patients a more comfortable experience compared to traditional methods. Key benefits of Bravo Reflux Testing include:
Patients simply wear a small receiver that records reflux episodes and pH levels, enabling your gastroenterologist to develop a personalized and effective treatment plan. If you suffer from persistent heartburn or acid reflux, Bravo Reflux Testing can provide the answers needed to manage your condition.
Sigmoidoscopy enables the physician to look at the inside of the large intestine from the rectum through the last part of the colon, called the sigmoid colon. Physicians may use this procedure to find the cause of diarrhea, abdominal pain, or constipation. They also use sigmoidoscopy to look for early signs of cancer in the colon and rectum. With sigmoidoscopy, the physician can see bleeding, inflammation, abnormal growths, and ulcers.
If you are healthy and have no symptoms, call 828-624-1358 to schedule a screening colonoscopy. A registered nurse will take your medical history over the phone and schedule your appointment. If you are having symptoms, you need a referral from your Primary Care Physician.
Gastroenterology Associates, P.A.
415 North Center Street, Hickory, NC 28601
Endoscopy Center - 3rd Floor, Suite 300
Clinic - Lower Level, Suite 002
Infusion Center - Lower Level, Suite 002
Our office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 5:00pm.
(828) 328-9101
Our on-call physician can be reached through the Frye Regional Medical Center at (828) 315-5000 (established patients only)
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