East Jefferson General Hospital – The Premier Hospital in Metairie, LA

Areas of Care

Digestive Health Healing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle for our patients

The Gastroenterology (GI)/Endoscopy department provides diagnostic and treatment services for diseases and conditions of the digestive organs.

EJGH Gastroenterology physicians are specially trained to treat conditions specific to the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, colon, liver and gallbladder. Through continuing education for nurses, physicians and staff and the latest in diagnostic technologies, our GI department is equipped with the knowledge, compassion and technical expertise to effectively treat digestive disorders ranging from the mild, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, to the severe, such as Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s disease.

By working in close conjunction with patients, radiologists and surgeons, when necessary, EJGH Gastroenterologists have accomplished great success healing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle for our patients.

Procedures performed in the department include:

Upper Endoscopy (EGD/Gastroscopy)
An upper endoscopy is performed to examine the upper portion of the digestive tract including the esophagus, stomach and upper portion of the small intestine. By using a long thin tube with a video clip, a Gastroenterologists can see, through a TV monitor, where any potential problems may exist in a patient’s upper GI tract.

Sigmoidoscopy
Much like an upper endoscopy, this procedure allows physicians to view a patient’s rectum and lower colon, on a video screen, by using a flexible tube.

Colonoscopy
A long flexible tube with a video chip is used to examine the inner lining of the large intestine. It is used to diagnose a number of intestinal conditions and can be used to perform biopsies. A Colonoscopy is the best practice for identifying colon cancer.

Endoscopic ultrasound
This procedure combines endoscopy and ultrasound to gather highly detailed information throughout the digestive tract.

Contact Digestive Health

Crohn's & Ulcerative Colitis

Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis are both types of chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

GERD

GERD is a chronic GI condition which results from gastric contents, most notably acid.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Unlike other intestinal conditions, IBS does not cause inflammation.

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Compassionate Care Enterstomal Therapy

The Enterstomal Therapy department provides medical care, education and support to patients with ostomies (colostomies, ileostomies and urostomies). Certified enterstomal therapy nurses assist patients with skin care, appliance fitting, nutritional requirements and lifestyle changes. Enterstomal therapy nurses are graduates of an educational program accredited by the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society.

Breakthrough Technology Stretta Treatment for GERD

Stretta Treatment is a breakthrough technology for the treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Stretta Treatment uses radio frequency energy administered through a small catheter to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing for the reduction or elimination of gastrointestinal reflux. Often times, lifestyle and diet management or medications can manage GERD symptoms, but for some, a minimally invasive technique such as Stretta Treatment or even surgery may be an option.

For more information or to find a physician who specializes in the Stretta Treatment, call HealthFinder at 456-5000.

Celiac Sprue Association

This group offers education and support for people with celiac disease/ gluten intolerance. Meetings are held at 7:00 pm in the East Jefferson General Hospital Conference Center on the last Tuesday of January, April, August, and October. Registration is not required, and family members are invited to attend. For additional information, call (504) 503-4077.

Ostomy Support Group

This group provides education and support for those coping with the challenges of living with an ostomy. Meets bi-monthly, call (504) 503-4941 for dates.